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What can we get from Hermetia illucens larvae?

BSFL production represents only a small part of this insect’s vast potential. From the larval farming process, two main products are obtained: the larva itself and a by-product known as frass.

The larvae, whether live, frozen, or dried, can be used directly as feed for a wide range of farmed animals, including fish, poultry, birds, and reptiles. Alternatively, they can be processed into protein-rich meals used in animal feed formulations.

From the larvae, it’s possible to extract:

  • Protein, mainly used in the animal feed industry for aquaculture, poultry, swine farming, and as pet food. Peptides can be extracted from these proteins, some of which have shown promising antimicrobial properties. Ongoing research is exploring their potential use in human and veterinary medicine, especially in combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
  • Lipids, like proteins, have various applications in animal feed. Depending on their chemical composition, these fats are also of interest for biofuel production and in cosmetics industry. Studies are currently being conducted to develop new cosmetic products rich in lauric acid and omega-3 fatty acids, known for their antimicrobial activity and moisturizing effects.
  • Chitin and chitosan, extracted from the exoskeletons of larvae and adult insects, have countless properties and applications in different fields. In medicine, they are used in wound care and antibacterial products; in textiles, for fabric pigmentation or the development of antimicrobial and hypoallergenic materials; and in the production of bioplastics, particularly for sustainable food packaging.

The larval farming process also produces Frass, a by-product made up of organic waste, including leftover feed and larval excrement. It is still rich in readily available nutrients, making it a valuable organic fertilizer for plants or soil improver in agriculture.

References

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