Like other insects, mealworms regularly shed their skin (a process called molting) as they grow. When freshly-molted, they are a creamy white color and their bodies are very soft. Their original color and hardness will return in a few hours or so. However, if you find a freshly-molted mealworm, try feeding it to your pet — many exotic pets seem to relish the opportunity to eat a freshly-molted insect.