Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia Illucens) as Dietary Source for Laying Quails: Live Performance, and Egg Physico-Chemical Quality, Sensory Profile and Storage Stability

Intensification of the SFE Using Ethanol as a Cosolvent and Integration of the SFE Process with sc-CO2 Followed by PLE Using Pressurized Ethanol of Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens L.) Larvae Meal-Extract Yields and Characterization

The objective of this research was to investigate and compare the results obtained in the intensification and integration of (sc-CO2) under different pressure conditions (25 and 30 MPa) at 60 °C. When intensifying the process, ethanol (10%) was used as a co-solvent (sc-CO2 + EtOH). In the process integration, black soldier fly larvae flour, defatted via supercritical extraction (SFE), was the raw material for pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) using ethanol as solvent. The extract yields, fatty acid profile, free fatty acids, triacylglycerols (TAGs), oxidative stability, and nutritional quality of the oil obtained using sc-CO2 + EtOH were evaluated. The composition of bioactive compounds (carotenoids, acidity, antioxidant compounds, tocopherols, and phospholipids) was determined in both extracts. The yields of the extracts were different by 32.5 to 53.9%. In the extracts obtained with sc-CO2 + EtOH (10%), the predominant fatty acids were oleic, palmitic, and linoleic, with considerable levels of desirable fatty acids (DFA), tocopherols, and phospholipids. The nutritional indices showed good values for polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids (PUFAs/SFAs), above 0.45%. Extracts from larvae meal defatted with SFE showed carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity. HPTLC and HPLC analyses indicated the presence of amino acids, sugars, phenolics, and organic acids in their composition. This study revealed that the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) process, or its conditions, can modify the fatty acid composition and the presence of minor bioactive compounds in the obtained extracts.

Live yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) larvae: a promising nutritional enrichment for laying quails

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of supplementing live Tenebrio molitor (TM) larvae to laying quails (Coturnix japonica) as nutritional enrichment. Live performances, apparent digestibility of nutrients (including that of sole live TM larvae), egg physicochemical quality, sensory traits, and storage stability were considered in this experiment. Sixty laying quails were divided into 2 dietary groups (6 replicated cages/group; 5 quails/cage): a Control group received a basal diet for laying quails and a TM10 group was fed with the Control diet supplemented with live TM larvae (10% of the expected daily feed intake). For the digestibility trial, 30 laying quails were divided into 3 dietary groups: the first 2 groups were fed with the Control and TM10 diets, while the third group received ad libitum live TM larvae (TM100) as a complete replacement for the Control diet. Overall, no mortality was recorded during the trials. Quails fed TM showed a remarkable capability of digesting dietary chitin (P < 0.0001). TM100 quails showed the lowest digestibility for dry matter, crude protein, and energy, but that of ether extract was the highest (P < 0.001). The presence of live TM larvae stimulated quails' feed intake (P < 0.0001), but did not affect performance traits. Similarly, overall physicochemical quality attributes and storage stability were comparable in Control and TM10 eggs. The sensory features of quail eggs differed in TM10 vs. Control groups: TM10 eggs had the lowest overall flavor (P < 0.01), sulfur (P < 0.05) and greasy-oily (P < 0.01) intensities. Therefore, a 10% TM dietary supplementation is effective in stimulating feeding activity of quails, but it did not provide any productive improvement compared to a standard diet. Further studies should assess the possible beneficial effect of live TM supplementation on quail's gut health. The digestibility trial with the sole live TM larvae allowed to assess the specific nutritional value of this emerging feedstuff which is of utmost importance for future feed formulations.

The impact of diets containing Hermetia illucens meal on the growth, intestinal health, and microbiota of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata)

The present study investigated the effect of replacing fishmeal (FM) with insect meal of Hermetia illucens (HI) in the diet of Sparus aurata farmed inshore on growth, gut health, and microbiota composition. Two isolipidic (18% as fed) and isoproteic (42% as fed) diets were tested at the farm scale: a control diet without HI meal and an experimental diet with 11% HI meal replacing FM. At the end of the 25-week feeding trial, final body weight, specific growth rate, feed conversion rate, and hepatosomatic index were not affected by the diet. Gross morphology of the gastrointestinal tract and the liver was unchanged and showed no obvious signs of inflammation. High-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons (MiSeq platform, Illumina) used to characterize the gut microbial community profile showed that Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, and Firmicutes were the dominant phyla of the gut microbiota of gilthead seabream, regardless of diet. Dietary inclusion of HI meal altered the gut microbiota by significantly decreasing the abundance of Cetobacterium and increasing the relative abundance of the Oceanobacillus and Paenibacillus genera. Our results clearly indicate that the inclusion of HI meal as an alternative animal protein source positively affects the gut microbiota of seabream by increasing the abundance of beneficial genera, thereby improving gut health and maintaining growth performance of S. aurata from coastal farms.

Effect of moisture content on larval gut microbiome and the conversion of pig manure by black soldier fly

The study investigated the influence of varied moisture levels in pig manure on the gut microbiome of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) and their waste conversion efficiency. This encompassed alterations in nutrient components of both BSFL and pig manure, diversity and characterization of the BSFL gut microbiota, and the reciprocal effects between the BSFL gut microbiota and their growth performance and nutrient composition. Additionally, the investigation delved into the changes in the bacterial community and the presence of potential pathogenic bacteria in pig manure. An initial mixture of fresh pig manure and wheat bran was prepared with a 60 % moisture content (Group A). Distilled water was subsequently added to adjust the moisture levels, resulting in mixtures with 65 % (Group B), 70 % (Group C), and 75 % (Group D) moisture content. Each group underwent BSFL digestion over ten days. Groups C (3.87 ± 0.05 mg/worm) and D (3.97 ± 0.08 mg/worm) showed significantly higher bioconversion efficiencies and enhanced BSFL growth compared to Groups A (2.66 ± 0.21 mg/worm) and B (3.09 ± 0.09 mg/worm) (P < 0.05). A 75 % moisture level was identified as ideal, positively influencing fecal conversion efficiency (FCE) (9.57 ± 0.14 %), crude fat intake (8.92 ± 0.56 %), protein (46.60 ± 0.54 %), and total phosphorus (1.37 ± 0.08 %) from pig manure, and subsequent nutrient accumulation in BSFLs. A decline in larval crude ash content indicated higher organic matter and an increased pig manure conversion rate with elevated moisture. High-throughput sequencing and diversity analyses confirmed different moisture contents influenced the BSFL gut microbiota. Bacteroidetes (32.7-62.0 %), Proteobacteria (6.8-29.3 %), Firmicutes (5.8-23.4 %), and Actinobacteria (1.9-29.0 %) were predominant phyla. A 75 % moisture content significantly impacted the BSFL biomass conversion and growth performance. Additionally, Larval feces met non-hazardous fertilizer standards, according to NY-525 (2012).

Evaluation of the Physical Characteristics and Chemical Properties of Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae as a Potential Protein Source for Poultry Feed

The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the effects of different drying methods on the physical and chemical properties of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) to determine their potential as an alternative protein source in animal feed. The experimental design was a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design (BSFL type × drying method), with five replications. The influence of post-harvest procedures was studied, including the different BSFL types (non-defatted and defatted) and drying methods (parabola dome, hot air oven, and microwave). The results showed that the types of BSFL, drying methods, and their interaction significantly (p < 0.001) influenced the feed's physical properties; these included the brightness of color (L* 29.74-54.07; a* 0.40-5.95; b* 9.04-25.57), medium bulk density (381.54-494.58 g/L), free flow with an angle of repose (41.30-45.40°), and small particle size. They significantly (p < 0.001) influenced the nutritive value of BSFL, which contained 42-59% crude protein, 7-14% crude fiber, 9-30% ether extract, and 5035-5861 kcal/kg of energy. Overall, both BSFL types and all the drying methods resulted in a slight variation in the proximate composition. However, a microwave and a hot-air oven were considered the most suitable methods for producing BSFL powder because of the high levels of nutrients retained and the improved physical parameters when compared to a parabola dome. This characterization of the physical and chemical composition of BSFL represents a preliminary methodology that could be used to initially preprocess larvae for use as an alternative protein source in animal feed and for other applications.

The influence of insect-derived and marine-based diets on sensory quality of poultry meat and egg: a systematic review

The poultry industry is trying to reduce feed costs by replacing soybeans and corn with new protein sources like insect-derived (ID) and marine-based (MB) ingredients. This strategy requires evaluating not only chicken performance and carcass characteristics, but also the sensory properties of the produced meat and eggs. The MB and ID products are potentially valuable sources of proteins, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals in animal nutrition. This systematic review reports the effects of using these ingredients including fishmeal and oil, fish protein hydrolysates, fish silage, and seaweeds and insect products like insects' protein and oil on the sensory properties of poultry meat and eggs. Studies show that excessive use of these compounds in poultry diet has a significant effect on the sensory properties of meat and eggs. However, there are conflicting reports regarding the use of ID and MD ingredients and their effects on the sensory properties of poultry meat and eggs. Therefore, it is necessary to have a systematic literature review on the subject and draw a clear conclusion. The study emphasizes the importance of using sensory assessment in the poultry nutrition studies' when using new ingredients and providing practical information for poultry nutritionists and processing professionals.

Effects of Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens Larvae) Meal on the Production Performance and Cecal Microbiota of Hens

The effects of Hermetia illucens larvae meal (HILM) as a feed supplement on production performance and cecal microflora were studied in 900 Hy-line Brown laying hens. Laying hens (60 weeks old) were randomly divided into four groups. Each group had five replicates, and each replicate had 45 hens. The control group was fed with a corn-soybean-based diet, and the experimental groups were fed with 1% HILM, 2% HILM, or 3% HILM. Results were as follows: (1) With the increase in HILM level, the laying rate increased linearly (p ≤ 0.05), and the feed/egg and cracked-egg rate decreased linearly (p ≤ 0.05). (2) Community composition analysis showed that the dominant bacteria in each group were Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes, followed by Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria, which accounted for more than 97% of 16S rRNA gene sequence of the total cecal bacteria. (3) Alpha diversity analysis at the operational taxonomic unit classification level showed that the HILM-addition groups had higher community richness and community diversity than the control group. (4) Principal co-ordinates analysis showed that the cecum samples in each group were significantly separated (p ≤ 0.05). At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes in the HILM addition groups was significantly lower than that in the control group (p < 0.001), and the relative abundance of Firmicutes in the HILM addition groups was significantly higher than that in the control group (p < 0.001). In conclusion, dietary HILM supplementation had a significant effect on the production performance and cecal microflora of laying hens at the late laying period under the conditions of this experiment but had no adverse effect on the intestinal dominant flora.

Could Insect Products Provide a Safe and Sustainable Feed Alternative for the Poultry Industry? A Comprehensive Review

The planet is home to more than 2000 species of edible insects, some of which have been consumed as food for many years. Recently, edible insect products have been gradually increasing in several countries, such as Italy and Egypt, as novel feed resources for humans and animals due to their availability, potential economic benefits, and high nutritive value. The insect industry can provide a new solution for livestock nutrition and offer many additional advantages, but there are obstacles to overcome, such as some nutritional organizations that forbid its usage. Nevertheless, previous research indicates that different insect species could be used safely as nutraceuticals in poultry farming to improve broiler growth performance (>3%) and layer egg production (>5%). Among these species, there are various products and extracts that can be used in poultry nutrition in a sustainable manner. This review provides an outline of insect composition, nutrient values, application in poultry feed, safety, and guidelines, and finally, the future perspectives of insects as an alternative feed source in poultry diets.

Potential of Full-Fat Silkworm-Based Diets for Laying Quails: Performance and Egg Physical Quality

The present research was conducted to determine the optimal inclusion level of full-fat silkworm chrysalis meal (SWM) into laying quails' diets, focusing on performance traits and egg physical quality. A total of 240 31-day-old female Japanese quails were randomly assigned to four dietary groups (12 replicates/treatment; 5 quails/replicate); quails were initially fed a standard commercial diet for pullets until 63 days of age. When oviposition started, the experimental groups received the following diets: a conventional corn and soybean-based diet (control diet-C) and three other diets, including 4%, 8%, or 12% of full-fat SWM (SWM4, SWM8, SWM12, respectively). Experimental diets were provided until quails reached 119 days of age. Birds displayed satisfactory productive performance throughout the trial. SWM12 and SWM8 had higher (p < 0.001) egg production but also a higher feed conversion ratio compared to C. At the end of the trial, the eggs edible portion increased, and shell weight decreased with increasing the SWM dietary inclusion level (p < 0.001). At the same time, SWM12 displayed an increase in albumen pH (p < 0.05), even though in the normal range for quail egg. Overall, full-fat SWM (up to 12%) can be considered a promising feed ingredient for laying quails, although higher inclusion levels (>8%) require special attention because SWM also contains anti-nutritional factors.

Effect of the dietary inclusion of Camelina sativa cake into quail diet on live performance, carcass traits and meat quality

The present research studied the effect of the dietary inclusion of 3 different camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz) cakes on the live performance, slaughter traits, and breast meat quality of broiler quails (Coturnix japonica). With this purpose, a total of 480 fifteen-day-old broiler quails of both sexes were allocated to 48 cages (12 replicates/treatment, 10 quails/replicate) and received 4 dietary treatments: a control diet (Control), and 3 diets containing 15% of 1 commercial cultivar (Calena), and 2 improved lines (Pearl: low linoleic acid; Alan: low glucosinolates). During the experiment, individual live weight (LW) and cage feed intake were recorded to calculate body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). At 35 d of age, quails were slaughtered, and carcasses were weighed and dissected to compute yields. On breast (pectoralis major muscle) the measurements and analyses considered ultimate pH, L*a*b* color values, proximate composition, oxidative status, cooking loss and WBSF toughness. Broiler quails receiving diets with camelina cakes exhibited mortality and health status similar to the control. However, growth performance was impaired in camelina-fed groups, especially for Calena (P < 0.05). Overall LW and BWG were slightly lower, whereas feed intake was slightly higher in camelina-fed groups compared to Control (P > 0.05). Therefore, higher FCR was recorded for camelina-fed groups compared to Control (P = 0.0004). Moreover, breast meat from Calena treatment displayed higher water (P = 0.0170), and lower lipid (P = 0.0051) contents compared to those of the Control group, while protein and ash content remained unaffected. Heme-iron content and oxidative status of breast meat were not influenced by the dietary incorporation of camelina (P > 0.05). The research outcomes indicated that camelina cakes can be used as an alternative feed ingredient for broiler quails' diets, without compromising carcass yields and meat quality. However, as 15% dietary incorporation worsened live performance, the ideal camelina cake inclusion level should be thoroughly investigated as well as a parallel research effort into further reducing glucosinolates content of camelina.

Effects of Partial Replacement of Soybean Meal with Defatted Hermetia illucens Meal in the Diet of Laying Hens on Performance, Dietary Egg Quality, and Serum Biochemical and Redox Indices

This study was carried out on 96 caged Bovans Brown laying hens at an initial age of 25 weeks, which were randomly assigned to four experimental groups of 12 replicates (cages) of two hens per cage. The control group hens received a diet containing 20% soybean meal (SBM), without Hermetia illucens larvae meal (HIM) content. The hens in the experimental groups received a diet containing defatted HIM at levels of 5, 10, and 15% (HIM 5%, HIM 10%, and HIM 15%, respectively), at the expense of a proportionally decreasing content of SBM. During the 12-week experiment, the laying performance, biochemical and redox blood indices, and liver condition were examined. The cholesterol level, fatty acid profile, and malondialdehyde content in egg yolks were also evaluated to determine the dietary quality of the eggs. The inclusion of HIM at any level in the diet did not affect the laying performance parameters (p > 0.05). Increased serum Ca and uric acid contents were observed. There was no effect on the redox indices in plasma. The number of hepatocytes was decreased in the HIM-fed groups. The level of cholesterol in yolks was reduced, and the fatty acid profile showed significant changes. Despite the high lauric acid content in the H. illucens meal, it was present in trace amounts in yolks. In the HIM-fed groups, the levels of saturated fatty acids increased significantly, whereas those of unsaturated fatty acids decreased in the yolks in the same groups.

Bioconversion of fruit waste and sewage sludge mixtures by black soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larvae

Bioconversion of fruit waste (FW) and sewage sludge (SS) sludge mixtures into valuable products was investigated using black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) under a lab-scale trial. For that, five different setups of FW and SS mixtures (100FW; 100SS; 70SS+30FW; 50SS+50FW; 70FW+30SS) were prepared and changes in larval biomass, feed loss, and residual waste physicochemical properties were estimated until the emergence of fly in all waste mixtures. BSFL caused a significant decrease in total organic carbon (11.71-34.79%) and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C/N ratio) while the increase in total nitrogen (8.35-123.30%), total phosphorus (17.02-143.36%), and total potassium (19.40-48.87%) contents in the feedstock. The germination index and C/N ratio of frass were below the standards decided for manure quality in a few setups suggesting the non-stability of frass for agronomic applications due to the short duration (20 d) of composting. Larval biomass yield, feed conversion ratio and nutrient mineralization were found to be higher in 50SS+50FW and 70FW+30SS feedstock combinations suggesting their suitability as ideal feedstock for optimal BSFL cultivation. The impact of toxic substances in sewage on BSFL survival, growth and waste stabilization processes, and frass metal enrichment could be investigated in future studies.

Growth Performance and Meat Quality of Growing Pigs Fed with Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae as Alternative Protein Source

Insects have been used as animal feed protein sources in livestock and poultry breeding, and their impact on pork quality needs to be studied. This experiment mainly explores the effect of adding black soldier flies to the feed on the growth performance and meat quality of pigs. All 24 weaned piglets were randomly divided into three groups, one group was given a normal diet as the control group (C), and the other two groups were supplemented with 4% (T1) and 8% (T2) black soldier flies as an alternative protein source, respectively. Pig growth performance and carcass traits were measured at the end of the 113-day experiment. After euthanizing the pigs, we used metabolomics to detect pig dorsal muscle and qPCR to detect gene expression in dorsal muscle and adipose tissue. For the average daily gain and backfat thickness, T2 group was significantly higher than T1 group and C group (p < 0.05). Intramuscular fat content was significantly elevated in the T1 and T2 groups (p < 0.05). The metabolomics results showed that there were significant differences in metabolites among the three groups (p < 0.05). The addition of black soldier flies could increase the content of some free amino acids, and the content of lipid metabolites also changed significantly (p < 0.05). The gene expression of type 1 muscle fibers in the T1 group and the PGC-1α gene expression in the T1 and T2 groups were significantly increased in the dorsal muscle (p < 0.05). The results of the present study showed that adding 4% black soldier fly instead of fish meal in the diet of growing pigs can significantly improve meat quality and supplementation of 8% black soldier flies has beneficial effects on growth performance of pigs.

Immunomodulatory potential of black soldier fly larvae: applications beyond nutrition in animal feeding programs

Insect-derived ingredients, including whole larvae, protein-rich meal, and oil, have been extensively studied in recent years and shown to be a sustainable source of quality nutrition for virtually all animal species and life stages. In addition to the ability to use these ingredients as a source of essential nutrition, more recent research has demonstrated the potential for the immunomodulatory activity of various components of insect-derived ingredients. For all insects studied, antimicrobial peptides make up a critical part of the insects’ innate immune system and these peptides have antimicrobial efficacy when purified from hemolymph and tested in vitro. From black soldier fly larvae, in particular, lauric acid is a predominant fatty acid deposited into the insect, and lauric acid also has potential antimicrobial activity in vitro and in vivo. Finally, the chitin and chitosan components of the insect exoskeleton may modulate microbial activity in a variety of ways. In companion animals, poultry, and livestock species, insect-derived ingredients have shown the potential to reduce the impact of actual or simulated disease challenge on several parameters of animal health and well-being. This review describes the current state of knowledge of the immunomodulatory potential of insect-derived ingredients.

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae oil as an alternative fat ingredient to soybean oil in laying hen diets

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Quality of eggs after feed supplements with silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) and black fly larvae (Hermetia illucens)

The quality of hen eggs after partial replacement (7%) of soybean meal with silkworm pupae flour (Bombyx mori) and black soldier fly larvae flour (Hermetia illucens) was studied. Three groups of eggs were examined -C (control, standard feed), K (7% pupae), L (7% larvae flour). Both replacements in feed didn’t have a significant effect on the pH of egg white and yolk (p > 0.05). Lightness (L*) of the egg white KW decreased, and it’s a* values increased (p < 0.05). In egg white LW, was found an opposite effect. A decrease in the yellowness (b*) was found in egg white KW (p < 0.05). The use of fortified feed with black soldier fly larvae significantly reduces the redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) of the colour in the yolk LY. After the addition of larvae to the feed, the b* value increased by about 10% (p < 0.05). The share of oleic (C18:1) and linoleic acid (C18:2) in the yolk (KY) increases, while the yolks of group L had the highest content of linolenic acid (C18:3). The partial replacement of soybean meal with both black soldier fly larvae and silkworm pupae increases the proportion of unsaturated fatty acids in the examined eggs.

Cyberlindnera jadinii yeast as a protein source in early- to mid-lactation dairy cow diets: Effects on feed intake, ruminal fermentation, and milk production

We examined the effects of substituting soybean meal with either yeast protein from Cyberlindnera jadinii or barley in concentrate feeds on feed intake, ruminal fermentation products, milk production, and milk composition in Norwegian Red (NRF) dairy cows. The concentrate feeds were prepared in pellet form as soy-based (SBM; where soybean meal is included as a protein ingredient), yeast-based (YEA; soybean meal replaced with yeast protein), or barley-based (BAR; soybean meal replaced with barley). The SBM contained 7.0% soybean meal on a dry matter (DM) basis. This was replaced with yeast protein and barley in the YEA and BAR concentrate feeds, respectively. A total of 48 early- to mid-lactation [days in milk ± standard deviation (SD): 103 ± 33.5 d] NRF cows in their first to fourth parity and with initial milk yield of 32.6 kg (SD = 7.7) were allocated into 3 groups, using a randomized block design, after feeding a common diet [SBM and good-quality grass silage: crude protein (CP) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content of 181 and 532 g/kg of DM, respectively] for 14 d (i.e., covariate period). The groups (n = 16) were then fed one of the dietary treatments (SBM, YEA, or BAR) for a period of 56 d (i.e., experimental period). The concentrate feeds were offered in split portions from 3 automatic feeders using electronic identification, with ad libitum access to the same grass silage. Dietary treatments had no effect on daily silage intake, total DM intake, or total NDF intake. Dietary CP intake was lower and starch intake was higher in the BAR group compared with the other groups. Ruminal fluid pH, short-chain volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations, acetate-to-propionate ratio, and non-glucogenic to glucogenic VFA ratio were not affected by dietary treatments. No effects of the dietary treatments were observed on body weight change, body condition score change, milk yield, energy-corrected milk yield, milk lactose and fat percentages, or their yields. In conclusion, yeast protein can substitute conventional soybean meal in dairy cow diets without adverse effect on milk production and milk composition, given free access to good-quality grass silage.

In vivo performances, ileal digestibility, and physicochemical characterization of raw and boiled eggs as affected by Tenebrio molitor larvae meal at low inclusion rate in laying quail (Coturnix japonica) diet

A total of 120, twelve wk old female Japanese quails were divided into 4 groups (6 replicates of 5 birds each). The control group (CON) fed a corn-soybean diet; in the other 3 groups, Tenebrio molitor larvae meal (TML) replaced 5, 10, and 20% of the soybean protein (T5, T10, and T20). The laying performance and egg quality were studied for 54 d. The data were processed by a one-way ANOVA; the orthogonal contrast analysis was performed to test the linear, quadratic and cubic effects among the means. The laying rate and egg mass linearly decreased (P < 0.01) as the TML inclusion level in the diet increased. The egg weight and feed conversion ratio linearly increased from the control to T20 diet (P < 0.01) while the digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, and crude protein linearly decreased (P < 0.05). The albumen and yolk weight showed a linear increase (P < 0.01) due to dietary TML inclusion, while the eggshell weight showed the opposite (P < 0.05). The estimated activity of Δ9-desaturase (C16:0), Δ5+Δ6-desaturase on both polyunsaturated fatty acid n-6 and n-3 linearly increased (P < 0.05) as affected by dietary TML. The boiled yolk lightness (L*) showed higher values in T5 and T10 groups (quadratic contrast, P < 0.01). The yolk redness index (a*) showed lower values in T5 and T20 than control and T10 groups (cubic contrast, P < 0.01). The albumen L*, a*, and b* indexes showed a significant effect of the quadratic contrast (P < 0.05). In addition, the albumen b* index showed a significant effect of the cubic contrast (P < 0.01). The total lipids showed the highest values (cubic contrast, P < 0.05) in the T10 and T20 groups. The total monounsaturated fatty acids linearly increased (P < 0.05) according to the increase of dietary TML. The best inclusion level of defatted TML meal for laying quails seems to be 1.4% of diet, corresponding to the T5 diet.

The Influence of Dehulling on the Nutritional Quality of Lupine Seeds (Lupinus albus L.) and the Effect of Their Use in the Feed of Laying Quails on the Live Performance and Quality of Eggs

Lupinus albus seeds from low-alkaloid varieties are a valuable alternative source of protein for reducing the dependence on soybean meal for the feeding of monogastric animals. Therefore, the aim of this research was to evaluate the dehulling influence of lupine seeds (L. albus, cv. Amiga) and the effect of their use in the laying quails feed on live performance and egg quality. A total of 200 laying quails (Coturnix japonica), with an age of 10 weeks, were randomly assigned to five experimental groups (five replicates/group). Each group was randomly assigned to one of five dietary treatments: the control group (C) diet was based on soybean meal, while the experimental groups received either 200 g/kg (WLS₂₀) or 250 g/kg (WLS₂₅) of whole lupine seeds in their diets, or 200 g/kg (DLS₂₀) or 250 g/kg (DLS₂₅) of dehulled lupine seeds in their diets. The results show that by dehulling the lupine seeds, the nutritional value of the seeds increased. The use of dehulled lupine seeds in the diet of laying quails did not affect the live performance (egg production, feed intake, feed conversion ratio), yolk cholesterol content, and physico-chemical quality indices of the eggs, compared with control. The presence of dehulled lupine seeds in the diet improved the nutritional quality of the yolk lipids because of the increase in the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Thus, the lipid quality indices of the yolk became more favorable to consumer health because of an increase in the h/H ratio (hypocholesterolemic/Hypercholesterolemic FA) and a decrease in the atherogenic index and thrombogenic index values. The higher content in carotenoids also contributed to the higher nutritional quality of the eggs obtained by lupine utilization. In conclusion, dehulling of lupine seeds had a positive influence on the nutritional quality of the seeds, the live performance of quails, and the quality of eggs.

Effects of Dietary Inclusion Level of Microwave-Dried and Press-Defatted Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae Meal on Productive Performance, Cecal Volatile Fatty Acid Profile, and Egg Quality in Laying Hens

Simple Summary

The microwave drying method is convenient in terms of time efficiency, space, and low operational cost compared with the conventional air-drying method. For the same reasons, the microwave drying method has the potential for manufacturing insect meals that could be an alternative protein source in poultry. Therefore, we evaluated the productive performance, cecal volatile fatty acid (FA) profile, and egg quality in laying hens fed on microwave-dried Hermetia illucens larvae meal (HILM) at two different substitution levels (2% and 4%) of soybean meal. Similar productive performance with no negative effects on the nutritional and physical quality of eggs was observed from the study, indicating that microwave-dried HILM can be a potential ingredient in the diets of laying hens. However, further research is needed in improving the manufacturing process for better bioavailability of HILM and improved FA quality of eggs.

Abstract

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal (HILM) is a promising alternative to soybean meal (SBM). However, little information is available on the effect of microwave-dried HILM as a dietary protein source in the diets of laying hens. We studied the effect of dietary inclusion level of microwave-dried HILM on productive performance, cecal volatile fatty acid profile, egg quality, overall fatty acid profile, and heavy metal residues of the egg in laying hens. A total of 144 laying hens (25-week-old) were randomly assigned to three dietary groups (eight replicates and six birds/cage): a control diet, and two experimental diets in which SBM was replaced with 2% HILM (2HILM) and 4% HILM (4HILM). The laying hens that fed the HILM showed satisfactory results in productive performance and egg quality. Branched-chain fatty acid levels increased linearly (p < 0.001) with dietary treatment in the cecal digesta. Total monounsaturated fatty acid increased linearly (p < 0.01), while total polyunsaturated fatty acid decreased linearly (p < 0.01) in the eggs by dietary treatments. Heavy metals, magnesium, zinc, and aluminum were increased linearly with dietary treatment; however, undesirable heavy metals were under permissible levels. Thus, microwave-dried HILM could be a possible alternative to SBM in the diets of laying hens; however, improvements in fatty acid profile are needed.

Effects of Dietary Inclusion Level of Microwave-Dried and Press-Defatted Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae Meal on Carcass Traits and Meat Quality in Broilers

Limited information is available regarding the use of microwave-dried Hermetia illucens larvae meal (HILM) as a dietary protein source for broiler diets. Therefore, we investigated the effects of microwave-dried HILM on carcass traits, meat quality, fatty acid (FA) profiles of abdominal fat and meat, and heavy metal residues of the meat in broilers. A total of 126 male broilers were randomly assigned to three dietary treatment groups (6 replicates and 7 birds/pen): a control diet and two experimental diets in which soybean meal was replaced with 25 or 50% HILM. The broilers were slaughtered at 35 days; the carcasses were weighed, and breast and leg meats were excised from 12 birds per treatment (2 birds/pen) for meat analysis. The breast meat quality and proximate composition showed satisfactory results. For the higher HILM diet, the content of saturated FA in the abdominal fat was increased and that of polyunsaturated FA was decreased (p < 0.001); the FA profile of leg meat did not significantly differ between groups. The concentrations of undesirable heavy metals in the HILM and leg meat were below permissible levels. However, the carcass weight was decreased (p < 0.001) in the 50% HILM group. Microwave-dried HILM is a potential ingredient for broiler diets, with up to 25% substitution showing no detrimental effects on carcass traits, meat quality, FA profiles, and heavy metal residues in the meat.

Insect Derived Lauric Acid as Promising Alternative Strategy to Antibiotics in the Antimicrobial Resistance Scenario

Antibiotic misuse is greatly contributing to an increase in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in humans and animals. Natural and synthetic alternative strategies are being investigated in human and veterinary medicine, but little attention is paid to the antimicrobial effects of edible lipids, such as medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) and monoglycerides. Among MCFAs, lauric acid (LA) and its monoglyceride derivative, glycerol monolaurate (GML), exhibit the strongest antimicrobial activity. Coconut and palm kernel oils are considered the main sources of LA. On the other hand, some edible insects (e.g., Hermetia illucens) are gaining interest as novel feed ingredients, due to the high amount of LA they contain as well as their numerous bioactive components, which provide many additional benefits to animal health. Although the beneficial effect of both MCFAs and LA is gradually being recognized, their high content within insects and, consequently, their possible role as antimicrobials, has not been well-reported. This mini review focuses on the anti-infective effects of the insect-derived MCFAs LA and its derivatives. We emphasize the potential of insect lipids, compared to the other vegetable sources, in the current global scenario where a sustainable and circular economy is required. Finally, we critically discuss the use and the benefits of edible insects such as favorable options as feed and food from the perspective of animal and human nutrition.

Effect of dietary inclusion of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) larvae meal on productive performance, egg quality indices and blood parameters of laying hens

Abstract Context Increasing demand for animal products, and scarcity and cost of conventional feed ingredients, drive the search for alternative energy and protein sources for poultry feed. Insects provide opportunities as a sustainable, high-quality and low-cost component of poultry feed. Aims This study evaluated the effects of dietary inclusion of powdered Tenebrio molitor (yellow mealworm) larvae meal on productive performance, egg quality characteristics and blood parameters of laying hens. Methods In total, 126 Bovans White laying hens, 63 weeks of age, were allocated to three dietary groups, each with seven replicate cages of six birds per cage. Treatments were: a basal diet, and two experimental diets comprising the basal diet plus T. molitor larvae meal at 2.5% or 5% inclusion rate. The duration of the study was 8 weeks. Key results Egg production, egg mass and feed conversion ratio were all improved (P &lt; 0.05) by inclusion of T. molitor meal in the diet. The lower rate of inclusion was more effective with respect to egg production and feed conversion ratio. Inclusion of larvae meal did not influence (P &gt; 0.05) feed intake, egg weight or bodyweight gain. Furthermore, egg quality characteristics and blood parameters were not influenced (P &gt; 0.05) by dietary treatment. Conclusions The study showed that inclusion of T. molitor larvae meal in the diet of laying hens could improve productive performance, especially at the 2.5% level. Implications Powdered meal of T. molitor larvae is an appropriate, unconventional feed ingredient for laying hens, and may have a role in improving socioeconomic and environmental outcomes, aligning with the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

Insect Fat in Animal Nutrition – A Review

The aim of this review is to discuss the usage of insect fats as an energy source in animal nutrition. Insects are a rich carrier of proteins, fat, and minerals. They are successfully introduced in animal diets (poultry, swine, rabbits, fish, and pets) as a source of many nutrients, including energy and essential fatty acids (FAs). The insects’ fat content and quality are highly affected by the type of substrate provided to the insects during the rearing period. The majority of the studies have shown that insect fats may be used as promising substitutes for conventional energy resources in animal nutrition without adverse effects on growth performance and feed utilization. They can positively affect meat quality by increasing the level of long-chain polyunsaturated FAs but may also positively influence animals by regulating the gut microbiota and stimulating the immune system. In conclusion, insect fat supplementation showed promising results in terms of their application in animal nutrition. However, compared to insect protein application, very few studies have been performed on insect fats. Therefore, because of the fat quality and content of insects, there is a need to extend experimentation regarding their implementation in animals’ diets as a replacement for conventional dietary energy resources.

ASAS-NANP SYMPOSIUM: RUMINANT/NONRUMINANT FEED COMPOSITION: Challenges and opportunities associated with creating large feed composition tables

Traditional feed composition tables have been a useful tool in the field of animal nutrition throughout the last 70 yr. The objective of this paper is to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with creating large feed ingredient composition tables. This manuscript will focus on three topics discussed during the National Animal Nutrition Program (NANP) Symposium in ruminant and nonruminant nutrition carried out at the American Society of Animal Science Annual Meeting in Austin, TX, on July 11, 2019, namely: 1) Using large datasets in feed composition tables and the importance of standard deviation in nutrient composition as well as different methods to obtain accurate standard deviation values, 2) Discussing the importance of fiber in animal nutrition and the evaluation of different methods to estimate fiber content of feeds, and 3) Description of novel feed sources, such as insects, algae, and single-cell protein, and challenges associated with the inclusion of such feeds in feed composition tables. Development of feed composition tables presents important challenges. For instance, large datasets provided by different sources tend to have errors and misclassifications. In addition, data are in different file formats, data structures, and feed classifications. Managing such large databases requires computers with high processing power and software that are also able to run automated procedures to consolidate files, to screen out outlying observations, and to detect misclassified records. Complex algorithms are necessary to identify misclassified samples and outliers aimed to obtain accurate nutrient composition values. Fiber is an important nutrient for both monogastrics and ruminants. Currently, there are several methods available to estimate the fiber content of feeds. However, many of them do not estimate fiber accurately. Total dietary fiber should be used as the standard method to estimate fiber concentrations in feeds. Finally, novel feed sources are a viable option to replace traditional feed sources from a nutritional perspective, but the large variation in nutrient composition among batches makes it difficult to provide reliable nutrient information to be tabulated. Further communication and cooperation among different stakeholders in the animal industry are required to produce reliable data on the nutrient composition to be published in feed composition tables.

Evaluation of black soldier fly larvae oil as a dietary fat source in broiler chicken diets

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of black soldier fly larvae oil (BSFLO) from the black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) as a partial or total replacement of soybean oil (SBO) on growth performance, fatty acid (FA) profile, and meat quality of broiler chickens from 1 to 5 wk of age. A total of 210 male broiler chickens (Ross 308) at one-day of age were randomly allotted to 3 dietary treatments (10 replicates and 7 birds/group): a basal control diet (CON), the basal diet in which the SBO was replaced by 50% (50 BSFLO) or 100% (100 BSFLO) of BSFLO. The growth performance, physical measurements and chemical traits of leg meat, and sensory analysis of breast meat were not influenced by diets. However, the relative weight (g/kg) of gizzard of CON was significantly higher (14.85, 12.52, and 13.02 for CON, 50 BSFLO, and 100 BSFLO; p < 0.05) than that of other treatments. As expected, the FA profile of breast meat was affected by BSFLO inclusion. The proportion (%) of saturated fatty acid (SFA) was increased (27.16, 27.58, and 28.72 for CON, 50 BSFLO, and 100 BSFLO; p < 0.05) by BSFLO inclusion and the percentage (%) of MUFA was also increased (43.36, 44.58, and 48.55 for CON, 50 BSFLO, and 100 BSFLO; p < 0.01). On the contrary, the proportion (%) of PUFA was decreased (29.49, 27.84, and 22.74 for CON, 50 BSFLO, and 100 BSFLO; p < 0.01). In conclusion, the present study suggests that the replacement of BSFLO did not show an adverse effect on growth performance and it could be an ingredient as a dietary fat source for a broiler diet.

A Review of the Use of Black Soldier Fly Larvae, Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), to Compost Organic Waste in Tropical Regions

Hermetia illucens (L., 1758) is a fly of the family Stratiomyidae frequently found in tropical zones. Adult flies are not considered pathogens as they are incapable of biting and feeding thus not transmitting sicknesses to humans. The larval stage feeds off organic matter and offer a rich protein source naturally consumed by animals. The use of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae to treat organic waste is growing around the world. This is especially true for tropical low- and middle-income countries as their favourable climate conditions mean that the BSF technology has significant potential to solve existing problems associated with a poorly developed sanitation infrastructure. In this study, we evaluate the feasibility, benefits and limitations of implementing BSF projects in tropical regions using Belem, in Brazil, as a case study. Black soldier fly prepupae, arising from the waste reduction process, can be used as animal feed. It therefore offers potential to promote regional development, create jobs and dispose of organic waste locally. Legal requirements as outlined in the Brazilian National Policy on Waste offer further incentives. However, more studies are needed to compare BSF waste reduction efficiency and prepupae yield to other technologies such as traditional composting and vermiculture, which can inform the decision-making for implementation of organic waste treatment facilities.

Hermetia illucens Larvae Reared on Different Substrates in Broiler Quail Diets: Effect on Physicochemical and Sensory Quality of the Quail Meat

This research aimed at improving the fatty acid (FA) profile of Hermetia illucens larvae (HI) and evaluating the effects of their inclusion in growing broiler quails' diets on the meat physicochemical quality, including detailed amino acid (AA) and FA profiles, sensory traits, and retail display. HI larvae were reared on two different substrates: layer mash (HI1) and 50:50 layer mash/fish offal (HI2). A total of 300 10-day-old quails were allocated to the three dietary groups (five replicates/each): a soybean meal-based diet was formulated (Control), and two other diets were formulated that included either 10% HI1 or HI2. Quails were fed the experimental diets until slaughter. Diets were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isoenergetic. Breast meat quality was affected by the dietary treatments, which displayed different proximate compositions and AA and FA profiles. Meat physical quality, sensory profile, and retail display remained unaffected for the most part. Overall, results showed that it is possible to improve the FA profile of the HI-fed quails' meat and thus lipid quality through substrate modulation of the HI's diet.

Comprehensive Resource Utilization of Waste Using the Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens (L.)) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)

The black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), is a saprophytic insect that can digest organic wastes, such as animal manure, plant residues, and food and agricultural wastes. In the degradation process, organic wastes are converted into protein, grease, and polypeptides, which can be applied in medicine, the refining of chemicals, and the manufacturing of feedstuffs. After their conversion by the H. illucens, organic wastes not only become useful but also environmentally friendly. To date, the H. illucens has been widely used to treat food waste and to render manure harmless. The protein and grease obtained via this insect have been successfully used to produce livestock feed and biodiesel. In this article, the biological characteristics, resource utilization of protein and grease, and environmental functions of the H. illucens are summarized. This article provides a theoretical basis for investigating potential applications of the H. illucens.

Meat Quality and Sensory Traits of Finisher Broiler Chickens Fed with Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia Illucens L.) Larvae Fat as Alternative Fat Source

At present, there is limited knowledge about the possible utilization of the fat fraction derived from Hermetia illucens (HI) larvae processing. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the replacement of soybean oil with HI larvae fat in broiler finisher diet, on the quality and sensory traits of their meat. At 21 days of age, 120 male broiler chickens were randomly allocated to three experimental groups (5 replicates and 8 birds/pen): a basal control diet (C), and two groups in which either 50% or 100% of the soybean oil was replaced with HI larvae fat (the HI50 and HI100 group, respectively). At day 48, 15 birds (3 birds/pen) per group were slaughtered, and breasts and legs were excised and used for meat quality evaluations. Breast and leg physical meat quality, nutritional composition and sensory profile remained substantially unaffected by the dietary treatments. In contrast, the dietary incorporation of HI larvae fat modified the fatty acid (FA) profile of both the breast and leg meat cuts: the proportion of saturated fatty acids increased (p < 0.0001) to the detriment of the polyunsaturated (PUFA) fraction (p < 0.0001). Moreover, the meat n-6/n-3 ratio increased in the HI50 and HI100 groups compared to the C group. HI larvae fat dietary inclusion decreased the monounsaturated fatty acids in the breast (p = 0.0012) but not in the leg meat. Further research should focus on the improvement of the FA profile of the larvae through substrate modulation, or by combining HI larvae with a PUFA-rich feedstuff in feed formulations.