Nutritional value of black solder fly (Hermetia illucens) eggs and larvae reared on fermented milk industry waste as an ingredient of fish feed

Abstract

Eggs and larvae of the black soldier fly are a new protein and lipid containing component, which seems to be quite promising for inclusion in a diet for fish feeding, since its rearing makes it possible to process wastes from various industries and agriculture. Omnivorous natures of black soldier fly, as well as high activity of amylases, lipases, and proteases are also advantageous. The nutritional value of eggs and larvae reared using fermented milk industry waste as a substrate was assessed by the content of total fat, total protein, water, macronutrients (K, Ca, Mg), micronutrients (Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Co, Se), and by amino acid composition as well. Chemical analysis has shown that the larvae are nutritionally valuable in total, but further data on fatty acid analysis and vitamin content are required. Black soldier fly eggs are not nutritionally valuable as a complete feed but may be used as a component of a diet.