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Global food security challenges are becoming more and more pressing, and that extends to the animal feed industry as well. Among the emerging solutions, the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) stands out as a promising alternative to traditional protein sources. BSF meal, obtained from the larva, is particularly relevant for numerous applications, and is distinguished by its numerous advantages.
The BSF is an insect native to South America, which is now being raised on a large scale all over the world. It plays a crucial ecological role, making it possible to break down a wide variety of organic materials. It is in its larval stage that it is the most interesting: it is capable of consuming up to 2 times its weight in organic matter every day and multiplying its size exponentially. Its rapid life cycle makes it an ideal insect for the production of protein-rich flours.
The production of BSF meal begins with the rearing of the larvae under controlled conditions. The larvae are raised on organic matter. Once harvested, they are dried and ground to obtain a fine powder rich in nutrients, ready to be incorporated into animal feed. This process is not only efficient but also adaptable to different production scales. A defatted protein flour is obtained, offering between 50 and 65% protein depending on the degreasing rate.
BSF meal is a real nutritional goldmine. It is rich in proteins, and in fatty acids and essential amino acids. It is also rich in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. This composition makes it particularly suited to the nutritional needs of farm animals and companion animals, promoting healthy growth and good general health. BSF meal is already used in the diet of various animals, including swine, barnyard animals, and fish. Numerous studies show that animals fed with insect meal have growth rates that are comparable to, or even better than, those fed with traditional proteins. For example, a study conducted in 2021 in the Netherlands showed that the inclusion of Black Soldier Fly in pig diets promotes the development of the intestinal microbiome and therefore intestinal health, and induces beneficial effects on the general health of animals. Other studies have shown that the inclusion of BSF in the diet of pigs or poultry improved their growth performance. Insect meal is also used in pet food, for its nutritional capacities and its digestibility and palatability properties. Studies show that the digestibility rate of insects reaches 84.3%, placing it on a par with, or even surpassing, other sources of animal meal. For comparison, fish protein has a level of only 82.1% and chicken protein 85.8%.
The main sources of protein in animal feed include soybeans, fish meal, and by-products from the meat industry, such as bone meal or blood meal. Each of these sources has advantages but also limitations.
Soybeans : Soy is a commonly used vegetable protein source. It is rich in proteins (around 40%) but requires a lot of arable land and water to grow. The intensive cultivation of soybeans is strongly linked to deforestation and the intensive use of pesticides.
Fishmeal : Very rich in proteins (60 to 70%) and essential amino acids, fish meal is a valuable ingredient. However, its production depends on intensive fishing, contributing to the overexploitation of marine resources and to negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems.
In comparison, BSF meal offers several advantages:
- Protein content between 50 and 65%, comparable to fish meal and superior to soybeans, and a amino acid profile very balanced, adapted to the nutritional needs of farm animals and pets.
- High digestibility : insect meal is easily digestible, which improves the efficiency of the diet.
- Antimicrobial properties, thanks to the antimicrobial peptides contained in the larva, which improve the immune response.
- A positive impact on animal growth and health breeding and companionship.
The production of insect meal has a low environmental impact. According to FAO, it requires fewer water and land resources than traditional livestock farming. Insect production also generates fewer CO2 emissions. For example, pigs produce an average of 10 to 100 times more greenhouse gases per kg of insects. In France, we know that agriculture alone accounts for almost 20% of greenhouse gas emissions. Insect production is therefore positioned as a sustainable alternative compared to traditional breeding methods. In addition, as the BSF is capable of growing on many substrates, it allows the reduction of organic waste. Insect farming therefore contributes to a circular economy for the production of sustainable proteins.
The insect sector is still facing technical and legislative challenges on the current market. Despite progress in recent years, the industry still needs to improve its production and technologies on a large scale. Strict regulations on the production and use of insects are also key challenges for the insect industry. Despite these challenges, the market prospects for insect meal are promising. Consumers are increasingly aware of environmental issues and the impact of livestock farming on the environment. The search for sustainable and economical alternatives is at the heart of the challenges in animal feed but also in human food. The petfood and aquaculture markets in particular are growing and their demand for insect proteins is increasing, and should reach thousands of tons in the years to come. The insect protein market is expected to grow significantly, supported by innovation and changing mindsets.
BSF meal represents a significant advance towards more sustainable and more effective animal nutrition. With its numerous nutritional, environmental and economic benefits, it is already transforming the animal feed industry. Recent innovations, cultural acceptance, and regulatory changes are paving the way for even wider applications. As we seek sustainable food solutions for a growing global population, insect meal plays a crucial role not only in animal nutrition, but also in human nutrition. This perspective represents a real food revolution for a greener and more responsible future.
