How to reduce waste using black soldier fly larvae and produce a high-quality product

Abstract

With the growing human population the demand for protein is rising and waste production is increasing. Insects can provide a sustainable solution for both problems and produce food (protein and fat) from waste. Our study tested the ability of the black soldier fly (BSF) to reduce agricultural waste and produce a high-value product rich in unsaturated fatty acids. Initially, we tested the diet limitations of the larvae. We tested the composition of the agricultural wastes (brewery and avocado wastes) and the ability of the larvae to grow on them. A mixed diet based on brewery and avocado wastes was composed to increase larval weight and improve their fatty acid composition. The larvae were limited by the protein and water content of the diet (7% and 70%, respectively). The mixed diet that met the requirements of a minimal ratio of protein (7%) and optimal water content (70%), did not improve larval weight but increased the unsaturated fatty acid content. Therefore, using BSF larvae to reduce waste and produce protein is feasible; however, the end product should be considered when composing their diet from a waste mixture.