A new paper, co-authored by GFS member, Dr David Willer, describes how researchers used AI to analyse social media posts and reveal potential consumers’ reactions to eating Naked Clams.
Naked Clams are bivalves once known only as a destructive pest but now poised to revolutionise global diets. With a history stretching back 8,000 years, when Aboriginal Australians first cultivated them, Naked Clams — also known as shipworms — are now being reimagined as a delicacy that could help address some of our most pressing food challenges.
By sifting through thousands of comments on videos viewed millions of times, the research team identified both the challenges and opportunities in repositioning Naked Clams as a desirable food. The study found that while some potential consumers are put off by the clams’ appearance or associations with pests before they try eating them, many of these doubters are won over once they try the delicacy.
Dr Reuben Shipway, the article’s lead author from the The General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS) commented, “It’s incredible to think that a species that once sank ships and changed the course of history could now help save our planet. Naked Clams are a perfect example of how nature’s solutions can often be found in the most unexpected places.”
Dr David Willer added “Naked Clams are more than just a novel food — they’re a symbol of how we can rethink our approach to sustainability. If we can turn a perceived pest into a gourmet dish, the possibilities for other underutilised species are endless.”