The caterpillars found in the Aldi broccoli were likely cabbage loopers or imported cabbageworms—common pests that feed on cruciferous vegetables.
Are they harmful? No. They are not toxic. They will not make you sick if accidentally consumed. They are simply an unpleasant surprise.
Can they carry bacteria? Any insect can carry bacteria, which is why washing produce is so important. But the risk of illness from caterpillar ingestion is extremely low.
What if I already ate some? Don’t panic. You’ll likely be fine. Monitor for symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. If you experience any, contact your doctor.
Other Shocking Food Finds (Real Stories from Real People)
The Aldi broccoli incident is not alone. Here are other shocking things people have found in their food.
A live frog in a bag of salad greens – A woman in California discovered a tiny frog hopping around her salad mix.
A dead mouse in a loaf of bread – A family in the UK found a rodent baked into their store-bought bread.
A metal bolt in a frozen pizza – A man in Texas chomped down on a metal bolt while eating frozen pizza.
A human tooth in a candy bar – A woman in Australia found a tooth in her chocolate bar. (Yes, really.)
A live snake in a bag of grapes – A family in Tennessee discovered a small snake coiled among their grapes.
These incidents are rare. But they do happen. And they’re a good reminder to always inspect your food before eating.
How to Wash Produce Thoroughly (Step-by-Step)
For leafy greens and broccoli:
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