Ishka Bless

Ishka Bless

Higher Degree by Research Candidate

School of Agriculture, Food and Wine

Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology


Ishka is a joint PhD candidate at the University of Adelaide and University of Nottingham. Her doctoral research explores the sensory properties of edible insects as well as pathways for accelerated adoption of entomophagy (the practice of eating insects) in Western food cultures. Ishka is also passionate about science outreach and communication. Alongside her research, she can be found regularly presenting on food science and edible insects.

Recent outreach activities include:
• WOMAD2023: https://youtu.be/12ZD6caiFbs
• Everyday Entomophagy pop-up educational program: https://www.adelaide.edu.au/newsroom/news/list/2023/02/21/explore-edible-insects-at-free-sa-pop-up-events
• Soapbox Science Adelaide 2022: https://soapboxscienceadelaide.weebly.com/our-speakers.html
• Behind the News 'Future of Food' special: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKa3ESwbaHA

Entomophagy (the practice of eating insects) may play a significant role in future food security, providing an alternative source of protein with a low environmental footprint. Despite this potential, edible insects have poor acceptance among Western consumers - limiting their adoption into everyday diet. Using sensory and consumer science methods, my research explores the sensory properties of edible insects as well as pathways for accelerated adoption of entomophagy (the practice of eating insects) in Western food cultures.

Year Grant
2021 University of Adelaide Research Scholarship
2022 Charlick Endowment Fund
2022 Inspiring SA Arts and Science Grant
Year Course Role
2022 FOOD SC 3028 Food Sensory Evaluation of Foods Marking
2022 OENOLOGY7019WT Sensory Studies Teaching and marking

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External Profiles