Shelf-Life of Insect-Based Poultry Feeds Made from Defatted Black Soldier Fly Larvae

Abstract

The increasing demand for animal protein and the rising cost of conventional feed ingredients necessitate the exploration of sustainable alternative protein sources. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), rich in protein and bioactive compounds, offer a promising feed resource. However, limited information exists on its storage stability, particularly in defatted form. This study evaluated shelf-life and quality changes of poultry feeds formulated with defatted BSFL meal over a six-month storage period. The experiment was conducted at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Kakamega. Four dietary treatments (0%, 25%, 50%, and 100% inclusion levels for defatted BSFL meal) were analysed at 0, 2, 4, and 6 months for proximate composition, moisture content, free fatty acids (FFA), peroxide value, and microbial load using AOAC 2005 procedures. Data was subjected to one-way analysis of variance using statistical analysis software, and significant means were separated by Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference at 5% level of significance. Results showed a significant decline (p<0.05) in crude protein and fat content over time, while crude fibre, crude ash, and moisture content increased. Moisture levels rose progressively, exceeding recommended standards, predisposing feeds to spoilage. Lipid oxidation increased as indicated by rising peroxide values, while FFA showed fluctuating trends. Yeast and mould counts peaked at mid-storage but declined by month six, suggesting stabilisation under prevailing conditions. No significant differences were observed among treatments for most parameters. Defatted BSFL meal demonstrated improved storage stability due to reduced lipid oxidation. The findings indicate that defatted BSFL-based feeds can maintain acceptable nutritional quality for up to six months if properly processed and stored. This supports their potential as a sustainable alternative protein source in poultry production systems, particularly in resource-constrained regions, thereby contributing to sustainable livestock production and organic waste valorisation.