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The water gel is fine, in fact dubias like humidity. As long as there is not excessive moisture, which causes mold. That said, fresh fruit and veggies is always better for them, especially if you are breeding them. If not, you can always replenish them cheaply online from places like...
Sometimes you have to experiment with food to find something that they will like. Although I can't guarantee it for tarantulas, I've noticed that a ton of bearded dragons prefer dubias to crickets. Maybe they can taste the healthy? I get mine at discountdubias.com