ISSUE FOCUS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 29 Amino Acids % DM Protein Source* BSFL Soybean Meal Herring Fish Meal Corn Gluten Sunflower Meal Canola Seed Meal Sesame Seed Meal 49.47 44 72.3 62 32 38 43.8 18.11 0.8 10 2.5 1.1 3.8 6.5 2.71 1 5.47 1.03 2.69 1.94 0.91 0.87 0.6 2.16 1.49 0.62 0.71 1.22 1.95 1.05 3.07 2 1.72 1.53 1.4 2.47 2.3 4.21 1.82 3.14 2.08 4.68 3.11 1.6 3.9 2.78 2.07 1.76 1.91 2.21 1 3.23 2.45 1.96 1.37 1.51 CP % LYS MET THR ARG VAL ILE CF % Table 1. Nutritional Comparison of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) with Common Conventional Protein Sources (% Dry Matter). (Adapted from 1. BSF values are averages compiled in the source; other protein source values are per NRC [50], as cited in 1) * Values of nutrients of BSFL are the average of their values presented in Table 1 while the values of the rest of the protein sources are according to the National Research Council (NRC) [50]. CP = crude protein, CF = crude fat, LYS = lysine, MET = methionine, THR = threonine, ARG = arginine, VAL = valine, ILE = isoleucine Furthermore, the protein in BSFL meal is highly digestible, allowing for efficient nutrient absorption which supports optimal growth and productivity. In addition to protein, BSFL contain up to 35 per cent fat. A key characteristic is the high concentration of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), particularly lauric acid, along with capric and caprylic acid. Lauric acid exhibits antimicrobial properties by disrupting the lipid membranes of certain gut pathogens and enveloped viruses, thereby helping to suppress their populations and support gut integrity. Feeding BSFL may also influence the fatty acid profile of the resulting meat and eggs, potentially increasing MCFA content, an area of ongoing research. The larvae are also naturally rich in calcium and phosphorus—essential for skeletal development and eggshell strength—with a typically high Ca:P ratio that can be beneficial for layers, provided the overall diet is appropriately balanced. Importantly, these minerals demonstrate good bioavailability, enhancing uptake and utilisation by the bird. Essential trace minerals such as zinc, manganese, iron, and copper are also present and play key roles in supporting immunity, metabolism, and various enzyme functions. Chitin, found in the larvae's exoskeleton, acts as a prebiotic fibre. It can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria. Research indicates that chitin and its derivative chitosan may also stimulate the bird's innate immune system by interacting with gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), potentially enhancing resistance to infections and contributing to gut homeostasis.2 GUT HEALTH, PERFORMANCE, AND REDUCING ANTIBIOTIC NEED A balanced gut microbiome (eubiosis) is crucial for optimal bird performance. BSFL contribute to establishing and maintaining eubiosis through the com-
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxNjkxNQ==