Tequila is an iconic drink that has been around for centuries, but one thing it does not have is a worm! You may have heard that tequila has a worm in the bottle, but this is simply a myth. In fact, the only Mexican spirit that has a worm in the bottom of the bottle is Mezcal.
So why do people think tequila comes with a worm? The confusion likely stems from bottles of mezcal that contain what is known as a gusano. This gusano is actually a larva from one of two types of moths, known as maguey worms, which are native to Mexico and live on the agave plant. When mezcal producers put these larvae into their bottles, they become known as ‘con gusano.'
Tequila is made from agave plants and though it's related to mezcal, they are distinct spirits with different production methods and taste profiles. To make tequila, only blue agave plants can be used and it must be fermented in oak barrels for at least two months before being bottled. The process for making mezcal differs slightly in that it can be made from any type of agave plant and does not need to be aged in oak barrels.
Though there may not be worms in your bottle of tequila, there are still plnty of reasons to enjoy this delicious spirit. Tequila has long been considered an important part of Mexican culture and its unique flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile when creating cocktails or enjoying neat or on the rocks. Whether you prefer blanco (unaged), reposado (aged 2-12 months) or anejo (aged more than 12 months) there's something for every palate when it comes to tequila!
The Effects of the Worm in Tequila
The ‘worm' often found in bottles of tequila is actually not a worm at all. It is the larva of one of two species of moths known as maguey worms, which live on the agave plant. These larvae are referred to as gusano and the bottles of tequila cotaining these larvae are known as con gusano. Although some people believe that the presence of a gusano in the bottle is an indication of good quality tequila, this is not necessarily true. The presence or absence of a gusano does not affect the quality or taste of the tequila in any way.
Does Tequila Still Contain the Worm?
No, they do not. While the idea of tequila with a worm in it is a popular misconception, it is actually mezcal that contains a worm. Mezcal is a Mexican spirit made from agave plants, and the presence of the worms is used as an indication of quality. The worms are actually larvae from one of two species of moths that live in agave plants, and have been found in bottles of mezcal for centuries. While some people still add the worms to bottles for novelty value, there is no longer any real purpose for them beyond aesthetics.
The End of the Tradition of Putting a Worm in Tequila
The practice of placing a worm in tequila dates back to the 1940s and was popularized by a number of marketing campaigns. While it has become a cultural icon and an expected feature of many tequilas, it is actually prohibited by the Normas Oficiales Mexicanas, the Mexican Standards authority.
There are several reasons why this practice has been outlawed. The main reason is that it can be misleading to consumers as there is no scientific evidence to suggest that consuming a worm with tequila has any health benefits or impacts the flavor or quality of the drink. Additionally, it can also be seen as distasteful and unsanitary, which cold have an adverse effect on the reputation of tequila if not done properly. Finally, there is concern that adding worms could increase the risk of food-borne illnesses if they are not handled correctly during bottling and storage.
Ultimately, while having a worm in a bottle of tequila may seem like an iconic part of Mexican culture, placing one in each bottle is no longer allowed due to safety and sanitation concerns.
The Debate Around Eating the Worm in Mezcal
Yes, the worm inside the bottle of mezcal is edible. Eating it may seem strange to most people, but in fact it is part of a pre-Hispanic tradition. The worm found in a bottle of mezcal is either an agave caterpillar or the larva of one of two moths that feed on the agave plant. Eating the worm has been long considered a sign of bravery, and is said to bring good luck to the person who eats it. It also adds a unique flavor and texture to the drink. While some may find this practice unappetizing, those who do choose to eat the worm should be aware that consuming large amounts can lead to diarrhea and vomiting due to its high levels of salt and acidity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is a common misconception that tequila contains a worm in the bottle. The truth is, only mezcal contains a worm in the bottle known as gusano, which is actually the larva from one of two types of moths that live on the agave plant. While tequila does not contain a worm, many people still choose to drink it for its distinct flavor and its association with Mexican culture.
