ISSUE FOCUS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 19 THREE UNIQUE BENEFITS OF INSECT OIL Insect ingredients, particularly black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) ingredients, have been gaining increasing traction, and the benefits are irrefutable. Firstly, insects are rich in nutrients and natural sources of nutrition for many animals. Images of dogs and cats snapping the air for passing critters may be amusing, but these canny canines and frolicking felines are simply following their innate instincts. We see it in poultry and pigs too, that seem at their happiest when doing what comes naturally by foraging for insects. Secondly, black soldier fly ingredients can be produced with a very low environmental footprint. This is because the black soldier fly is farmed vertically which minimises land and water use. Moreover, its production has lower CO2 emissions than traditional ingredient production. The environmental benefits of insect ingredients are well documented. Finally, and perhaps the most compelling reason to opt for black soldier fly ingredients, is that this miniscule creature comes with a mighty appetite. The larvae quickly devour by-products from the food and agricultural industry. This means they are capable of solving our waste problem at the same time. INTRODUCING LipidX: A TURNKEY SOLUTION Protix identified the black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) as a superior source of fat many years ago. By combining nature with high-tech, the company is able to create a nutritious insect oil that is naturally good for animals and good for the planet. LipidX is a purified, high-quality fat from Protix, with a fatty acid profile similar to coconut oil. It is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, which make it the perfect source of easily digestible energy for animals. In particular, LipidX typically contains 39% lauric acid. Lauric acid is valued for its antimicrobial properties in the digestive tract, which contribute to a healthier immune system and support overall animal health maintenance. Though similar in general fatty acid profile to coconut oil, LipidX has a different triglyceride profile, notably containing nearly twice as much trilaurin as coconut oil. THE IMMEDIATE ADVANTAGE: A LOW FOOTPRINT Protix is able to produce LipidX with a very low environmental footprint. To underpin its green cre-
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxNjkxNQ==