Assessment of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal as a Dietary Protein Source for Enhancing Broiler Meat Quality

Why It Matters

Replacing soybean meal with BSFLM reduces reliance on traditional soy imports and offers a sustainable, high‑protein feed alternative, potentially lowering production costs for poultry operations. Optimizing inclusion levels ensures consumer‑acceptable meat quality while supporting circular economy goals.

Key Takeaways

• 25% BSFLM yields highest slaughter weight and dressing percentage.
• 75%+ BSFLM reduces carcass weight and organ yields.
• Protein content peaks at 100% BSFLM inclusion.
• Cooking loss declines as BSFLM level increases.
• Recommended BSFLM inclusion: 25%–50% for optimal performance.

Pulse Analysis

The rise of insect‑derived proteins reflects a broader shift toward environmentally responsible animal nutrition. Black soldier fly larvae meal, produced from organic waste streams, offers a high‑quality amino acid profile while dramatically reducing land and water footprints compared with conventional soybean meal. For poultry producers facing volatile soy prices and sustainability pressures, BSFLM presents a compelling feed ingredient that aligns with ESG objectives and consumer demand for greener food systems.

In the recent broiler trial, moderate BSFLM inclusion (25%–50%) delivered the best combination of growth performance and carcass traits. Birds fed 25% BSFLM achieved the highest live weight and dressing percentage, indicating efficient nutrient utilization. Although 100% BSFLM boosted crude protein content in the meat, it also introduced higher ether extract levels and modest declines in organ weights, suggesting diminishing returns at extreme inclusion rates. Notably, cooking loss consistently fell as BSFLM levels rose, enhancing yield for processors, while shear force and color changes remained within acceptable market thresholds.

These findings signal a realistic pathway for scaling insect protein in commercial poultry operations. Feed formulators can replace a quarter to half of soybean meal with BSFLM without compromising meat quality, thereby cutting feed costs and diversifying supply chains. As regulatory frameworks mature and production capacity expands, the cost gap between insect meals and traditional proteins is expected to narrow, accelerating adoption. Ongoing research into nutrient balancing and consumer perception will further cement BSFLM’s role in sustainable protein strategies for the global meat industry.