What is the future of insects in poultry, animal feed?

Founder and CEO of insect protein company, Livin Farms, Katharina Unger, believes that insect protein will pave the way to the future of poultry and other animal feed.

David Susanto | Dreamstime.com
David Susanto | Dreamstime.com

Founder and CEO of insect protein company, Livin Farms, Katharina Unger, believes that insect protein will pave the way to the future of poultry and other animal feed. 

Poultry 

As an alternative to soybean and palm kernel oil, research into insect protein in poultry feed saw improved feed conversion ratio, better growth and reduced mortality, according to Unger during a Balchem webinar

Insect protein can replace up to 20% of poultry feed without compromising egg and eggshell quality, according to a study which concluded that “Black soldier flies maggot meal had no negative influence on the eggs’ external, internal, and nutritious quality… Based on the results of the current study, the authors conclude that the long-term inclusion of black soldier fly larvae meal in laying hen diets is safe and feasible.”

Pet food 

Insect protein can make up approximately 20% of pet food as well, while still maintaining good digestibility and stool quality, with potential anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties.

Pig 

Insect protein could only replace about 10% of pig feed, but research has found that using insect lipids increased piglet feed intake, according to Unger. 

The study she referenced indicates “that adding black soldier flies to growing pig feed could significantly improve the quality of pork, increase the amount of individual amino acids in muscles, and increase gene expression of slow-twitch muscle fibers.”

Fish 

At 85%, insect protein could replace the majority of fish feeds, which has shown health benefits. 

Insect protein’s impact on the environment

While developing insect protein as a viable animal feed ingredient, researchers have also prioritized its impact on the environment, especially compared to traditional ingredients. 

Using insect protein saves 92% of emissions per ton of protein compared to soy, according to Unger, and 70% of emissions saved compared to composting. 

The future of the insect protein industry 

The insect protein industry is expected to grow 5000% by 2030, and Unger anticipates a decentralization and segmentation of the industry with various competing producers. 

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