Exploring consumers’ attitude and sensory perception of circular eggs from hens fed with black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) reared on agroindustrial by-products

Insects as a protein source in animal feed represent a sustainable alternative to conventional feeding practices. This study explored consumers’ attitudes and sensory perception of circular eggs, defined as eggs from hens partially fed with black soldier fly larvae (H. illucens) reared on agroindustrial by-products. A questionnaire was administered (n = 456; mean age: 40; F = 62 %) to investigate the impact of sociodemographic characteristics, Food Neophobia (FN), Disgust Sensitivity (DS) and sustainability awareness on attitude towards circular eggs. Results showed that men, highly educated and environmentally-engaged consumers, and subjects with low FN and DS were more prone towards circular eggs. Sensory evaluation was performed (n = 143, mean age: 30; F = 60 %) to compare circular and conventional eggs, prepared as hard-cooked and poached, through liking and Check-All-That-Apply tests. Consumers preferred circular eggs for overall appearance, yolk and albumen colour, yolk and overall flavour and yolk texture. Sensory attribute differences between circular and conventional eggs were more pronounced in hard-cooked samples, while poached samples showed fewer distinctions. These findings highlighted the potential of insect-based poultry feed to support food systems sustainability while maintaining consumers’ acceptance. However, targeted communication strategies addressing food neophobia, disgust sensitivity and economic incentives might be necessary for broader market adoption of circular eggs.