Welcome, introduction, and dedication of the symposium to Gene DeFoliart

It is quite clear that the continued development of entomophagy will require a partnership between outreach and research. Entomophagy needs to have an entire supportive grassroots movement...from writers, to researchers, to PR, to designed systems and objects. Responsible and positive media must take a much more prominent role in our interface with the general public. If sensationalistic portrayal of entomophagy continues to overwhelm the facts of the matter, Americans, Europeans, and other peoples of the world will continue to dismiss insect consumption. That is not acceptable. Therefore, it is essential that experts of various involved disciplines ensure that useful and beneficial information is disseminated. Our presentation will detail our efforts to do just that.