Animals

2024

Jump to: 2023, 2021, 2020, 2019

14 pages, 809 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mitigation Strategies against Food Safety Contaminant Transmission from Black Soldier Fly Larva Bioconversion

by Matan Shelomi

Animals 2024, 14(11), 1590; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111590 - 28 May 2024

Viewed by 1379

Abstract

The black soldier fly larva, Hermetia illucens, can efficiently convert organic waste into biomatter for use in animal feed. This circularity comes with a risk of contaminating downstream consumers of the larval products with microbes, heavy metals, and other hazards potentially present [...] Read more.

The black soldier fly larva, Hermetia illucens, can efficiently convert organic waste into biomatter for use in animal feed. This circularity comes with a risk of contaminating downstream consumers of the larval products with microbes, heavy metals, and other hazards potentially present in the initial substrate. This review examines research on mitigation techniques to manage these contaminants, from pretreatment of the substrate to post-treatment of the larvae. While much research has been done on such techniques, little of it focused on their effects on food safety contaminants. Cheap and low-technology heat treatment can reduce substrate and larval microbial load. Emptying the larval gut through starvation is understudied but promising. Black soldier fly larvae accumulate certain heavy metals like cadmium, and their ability to process certain hazards is unknown, which is why some government authorities are erring on the side of caution regarding how larval bioconversion can be used within feed production. Different substrates have different risks and some mitigation strategies may affect larval rearing performance and the final products negatively, so different producers will need to choose the right strategy for their system to balance cost-effectiveness with sustainability and safety. Full article

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2023

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16 pages, 294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustenance Trial to Analyze the Effects of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal on the Reproductive Efficiency of Sows and the Hematological Properties of Suckling and Weaning Piglets

by Kiyonori Kawasaki, Junliang Zhao, Natsu Takao, Masaki Sato, Takuma Ban, Kaoru Tamamaki, Masanori Kagami and Kiminobu Yano

Animals 2023, 13(21), 3410; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13213410 - 3 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1323

Abstract

The escalating demand for meat, driven by global population growth, necessitates sustainable solutions for animal feed production. This study investigated the effects of substituting conventional protein resources in sow and piglet dietary regimens with black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens) meal on [...] Read more.

The escalating demand for meat, driven by global population growth, necessitates sustainable solutions for animal feed production. This study investigated the effects of substituting conventional protein resources in sow and piglet dietary regimens with black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens) meal on reproductive efficiency, blood profile, piglet growth, and intestinal tissue morphology. The results indicate that substituting animal-derived and soy proteins with BSF meal does not compromise sow reproductive performance. Although no notable disparities were observed in piglet growth, the feed conversion ratio from the 28- to 35-day age marks were lower in the BSF-fed groups. This suggests that the animal protein-BSF substitution rate may require optimization, potentially involving chitin removal from BSF meal to enhance digestibility. Minor variations in the hematological composition and properties in piglets, with elevated high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in the high BSF group at the 28-day mark, were potentially attributable to the unique fatty acid composition of BSF meal. Moreover, this study potentiates future exploration into the efficacy of complete animal protein substitution with BSF meals on piglet nutrition and physiology, particularly in fattening pigs. The practical implementation of BSF meals in animal feed production holds promise for enhancing the sustainability of the swine industry. Full article

16 pages, 8419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Dietary Fish Meal Substitution with the Black Soldier Fly Larval Meal Modifies the Caecal Microbiota and Microbial Pathway in Laying Hens

by Junliang Zhao, Takuma Ban, Hironori Miyawaki, Hirofumi Hirayasu, Akihisa Izumo, Shun-ichiro Iwase, Koji Kasai and Kiyonori Kawasaki

Animals 2023, 13(16), 2629; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13162629 - 15 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1754

Abstract

Feeding laying hens with black soldier fly larval (BSFL) meal improves their performance. However, the beneficial mechanism of BSFL meals in improving the performance of laying hens remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of the BSFL diet on liver metabolism, gut physiology, [...] Read more.

Feeding laying hens with black soldier fly larval (BSFL) meal improves their performance. However, the beneficial mechanism of BSFL meals in improving the performance of laying hens remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of the BSFL diet on liver metabolism, gut physiology, and gut microbiota in laying hens. Eighty-seven Julia hens were randomly assigned to three groups based on their diets and fed maize grain-and soybean meal-based diets mixed with either 3% fish meal (control diet), 1.5% fish and 1.5% BSFL meals, or 3% BSFL meal for 52 weeks. No significant differences were observed in biochemical parameters, hepatic amino acid and saturated fatty acid contents, intestinal mucosal disaccharidase activity, and intestinal morphology between BSFL diet-fed and control diet-fed laying hens. However, the BSFL diet significantly increased the abundance of acetic and propionic acid-producing bacteria, caecal short-chain fatty acids, and modified the caecal microbial pathways that are associated with bile acid metabolism. These findings indicate that consuming a diet containing BSFL meal has minimal effects on plasma and liver nutritional metabolism in laying hens; however, it can alter the gut microbiota associated with short-chain fatty acid production as well as the microbial pathways involved in intestinal fat metabolism. In conclusion, this study provides evidence that BSFL can enhance enterocyte metabolism and gut homeostasis in laying hens. Full article

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10 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Inclusion of Crickets (Acheta domesticus) and Yellow Mealworm Meal (Tenebrio molitor) in Comparison with Soybean Meal: Effect on the Growth, Total Tract Apparent Digestibility, and Nitrogen Balance of Fattening Rabbits

by Zdeněk Volek, Lukáš Zita, Anna Adámková, Martin Adámek, Jiří Mlček and Vladimír Plachý

Animals 2023, 13(10), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13101637 - 14 May 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1857

Abstract

Three diets were formulated, i.e., soybean meal (SM diet), adult Acheta domesticus (AD diet), and Tenebrio molitor larvae (TM diet), as the main crude protein (CP) sources. A total of 45 rabbits (Hyplus, weaned at 32 days of age) were divided into three [...] Read more.

Three diets were formulated, i.e., soybean meal (SM diet), adult Acheta domesticus (AD diet), and Tenebrio molitor larvae (TM diet), as the main crude protein (CP) sources. A total of 45 rabbits (Hyplus, weaned at 32 days of age) were divided into three groups (15 per treatment) and fed one of the three diets for 42 days. A higher daily weight gain (p = 0.042), as well as daily feed intake (p = 0.022), was observed in rabbits fed the AD and TM diets than in rabbits fed the SM diet within 21 days after weaning. The coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD) of gross energy were higher (p = 0.001) in rabbits fed the SM diet than in rabbits fed the other diets. The CTTAD of CP (p = 0.040) and starch (p = 0.041) was higher in rabbits fed the SM diet compared to those fed the AD diet. There were non-significantly higher losses of nitrogen in the urine (an average by 0.227 g/day; p = 0.094) in rabbits fed the TM diet than in rabbits fed the other diets. It can be concluded that the growth of rabbits and nitrogen output were not detrimentally affected by the insect meal (AD or TM) used in this study. Full article

14 pages, 536 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Black Soldier Fly Larva Fat in Broiler Chicken Diets Affects Breast Meat Quality

by Bartosz Kierończyk, Mateusz Rawski, Zuzanna Mikołajczak, Piotr Szymkowiak, Kinga Stuper-Szablewska and Damian Józefiak

Animals 2023, 13(7), 1137; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13071137 - 23 Mar 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4572

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent effect of black soldier fly (BFL) larvae fat inclusion in broiler chicken diets on breast meat quality. Four hundred 1-day-old male birds (Ross 308) were assigned to the following four treatments (10 replicates with 10 birds [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent effect of black soldier fly (BFL) larvae fat inclusion in broiler chicken diets on breast meat quality. Four hundred 1-day-old male birds (Ross 308) were assigned to the following four treatments (10 replicates with 10 birds each): HI0, a basal diet without dietary fat inclusion, and HI03, HI06, and HI09, basal diets enriched with 30 g/kg, 60 g/kg, and 90 g/kg of BSF larvae fat, respectively. Principal component analysis showed noticeable differentiation between the selected plant, animal, and insect-origin dietary fats. The BSF fat exhibits a strong relationship with saturated fatty acids (SFAs), resulting in a high concentration of C12:0 and C14:0. The fatty acid (FA) profile in breast muscle obtained from broilers fed diets with increasing insect fat inclusion showed a significant linear effect in terms of C12:0, C15:0, C18:2, C18:3n6, and total FAs. The proportion of dietary insect fat had a quadratic effect on meat color. The water-holding capacity indices have stayed consistent with the meat color changes. Throughout the experiment, favorable growth performance results were noticed in HI06. The present study confirmed that BSF larvae fat negatively affects the n3 level in meat. However, the physicochemical indices related to consumer acceptance were not altered to negatively limit their final decision, even when a relatively high inclusion of insect fat was used. Full article

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9 pages, 257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Drying Methods and Blanching on Nutrient Utilization in Black Soldier Fly Larva Meals Based on In Vitro Assays for Pigs

by Jeonghyeon Son, Seol Hwa Park, Hyun Jung Jung, Sun Jong You and Beob Gyun Kim

Animals 2023, 13(5), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13050858 - 26 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5014

Abstract

The objective was to determine the effects of drying and blanching methods on the nutrient utilization of black soldier fly larva (BSFL; Hermetia illucens) meal by pigs using in vitro assays. Two-step and three-step in vitro assays were employed to simulate the [...] Read more.

The objective was to determine the effects of drying and blanching methods on the nutrient utilization of black soldier fly larva (BSFL; Hermetia illucens) meal by pigs using in vitro assays. Two-step and three-step in vitro assays were employed to simulate the gastrointestinal tract of pigs. Four BSFL meals were prepared using the following pretreatment methods: (1) microwave drying at 80 °C for 32 min, (2) hot-air drying at 60 °C for 17 h, (3) blanching for 5 min in boiling water and hot-air drying at 60 °C for 17 h, and (4) 2% citric acid solution blanching for 5 min in boiling solution and hot-air drying at 60 °C for 17 h. After the drying process, each BSFL was defatted and ground to obtain BSFL meals. The nitrogen (N) concentration in the test ingredients ranged from 8.5 to 9.4%, and the ether extract ranged from 6.9 to 11.5% on an as-is basis. The amino acid (AA) concentration in the BSFL meals ranged from 2.80 to 3.24% for Lys and 0.71 to 0.89% for Met on an as-is basis. Hot-air-dried BSFL meal had a greater in vitro ileal disappearance (IVID) of N compared with microwave-dried BSFL meal (p < 0.05). However, blanched BSFL meals in water or 2% citric acid solution before hot-air drying had a lower (p < 0.05) IVID of N compared with microwave-dried or hot-air-dried BSFL meal. Blanched BSFL meals in water or 2% citric acid solution before hot-air drying showed a lower (p < 0.05) in vitro total tract disappearance of dry matter and organic matter compared with microwave-dried or hot-air-dried BSFL meal. Microwave-dried BSFL meal had a lower (p < 0.05) IVID of indispensable AA, except for His, Lys, Met, and Phe, compared with hot-air-dried BSFL meals. However, blanched BSFL meals in water or 2% citric acid solution before hot-air drying showed a lower (p < 0.05) IVID of indispensable AA compared with microwave-dried or hot-air-dried BSFL meal. In conclusion, hot-air-dried BSFL meal presented greater nutrient utilization compared with microwave-dried BSFL meal for pigs. However, blanching in water or citric acid solution negatively affected the nutrient digestibility of BSFL meal based on in vitro assays. Full article

2021

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14 pages, 302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insects as Novel Ruminant Feed and a Potential Mitigation Strategy for Methane Emissions

by Eslam Ahmed, Naoki Fukuma, Masaaki Hanada and Takehiro Nishida

Animals 2021, 11(9), 2648; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11092648 - 9 Sep 2021

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5768

Abstract

This study is the first to evaluate the chemical composition and impacts of four different edible insects, Acheta domesticus (A.d), Brachytrupes portentosus (B.p), Gryllus bimaculatus (G.b), and Bombyx mori (B.m), on the digestibility, rumen fermentation, and methane production when used as a substitute [...] Read more.

This study is the first to evaluate the chemical composition and impacts of four different edible insects, Acheta domesticus (A.d), Brachytrupes portentosus (B.p), Gryllus bimaculatus (G.b), and Bombyx mori (B.m), on the digestibility, rumen fermentation, and methane production when used as a substitute for 25% of the soybean meal (SBM) in a ruminant diet through in vitro incubation. The dietary treatments were 100% grass hay, 60% grass hay + 40% SBM, 60% grass hay + 30% SBM + 10% A.d, 60% grass hay + 30% SBM + 10% B.p, 60% grass hay + 30% SBM + 10% G.b, and 60% grass hay + 30% SBM + 10% B.m. The experiment was conducted as a short-term batch culture for 24 h at 39 °C, and the incubation was repeated in 3 consecutive runs. Chemical analysis of the insects showed that they were rich in fat (14–26%) with a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids (60–70%). Additionally, the insects were rich in protein (48–61%) containing all essential amino acids and the amino acid profiles of the insects were almost the same as that of SBM. The inclusion of insects did not affect nutrient digestibility or the production of volatile fatty acids but did increase the production of ammonia-nitrogen. The addition of G.b and B.m led to decrease in methane production by up to 18% and 16%, respectively. These results reveal that substitution of 25% SBM in the diet with the tested insects had no negative impacts, and their potential to reduce methane production is an environmental benefit. Full article

16 pages, 3139 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical Processing of Hermetia illucens Larvae and Bombyx mori Pupae Produces Oils with Antimicrobial Activity

by Alessio Saviane, Luca Tassoni, Daniele Naviglio, Daniela Lupi, Sara Savoldelli, Giulia Bianchi, Giovanna Cortellino, Paolo Bondioli, Liliana Folegatti, Morena Casartelli, Viviana Teresa Orlandi, Gianluca Tettamanti and Silvia Cappellozza

Animals 2021, 11(3), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11030783 - 11 Mar 2021

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 4910

Abstract

The aim of this work was to develop processing methods that safeguard the quality and antimicrobial properties of H. illucens and B. mori oils. We adopted a vegetable diet for both insects: leftover vegetables and fruit for H. illucens and mulberry leaves for [...] Read more.

The aim of this work was to develop processing methods that safeguard the quality and antimicrobial properties of H. illucens and B. mori oils. We adopted a vegetable diet for both insects: leftover vegetables and fruit for H. illucens and mulberry leaves for B. mori. First, alternative techniques to obtain a good oil extraction yield from the dried biomass of H. illucens larvae were tested. Traditional pressing resulted to be the best system to maximize the oil yield and it was successfully applied to B. mori pupae. Oil quality resulted comparable to that obtained with other extraction methods described in the literature. In the case of B. mori pupae, different treatments and preservation periods were investigated to evaluate their influence on the oil composition and quality. Interestingly, agar diffusion assays demonstrated the sensitivity of Gram-positive Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus to H. illucens and B. mori derived oils, whereas the growth of Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli was not affected. This study confirms that fat and other active compounds of the oil extracted by hot pressing could represent effective antimicrobials against bacteria, a relevant result if we consider that they are by-products of the protein extraction process in the feed industry. Full article

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14 pages, 305 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Black Soldier Fly Full-Fat Larvae Meal Is More Profitable Than Fish Meal and Fish Oil in Siberian Sturgeon Farming: The Effects on Aquaculture Sustainability, Economy and Fish GIT Development

by Mateusz Rawski, Jan Mazurkiewicz, Bartosz Kierończyk and Damian Józefiak

Animals 2021, 11(3), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11030604 - 25 Feb 2021

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 7073

Abstract

This study provides data on the environmental sustainability, economic profitability, and gastrointestinal tract development of Siberian sturgeon diets containing black soldier fly full-fat larvae meal (BSFL) for a fish meal (FM) and fish oil (FO) replacement. BSFL was used at 5%, 10%, 15%, [...] Read more.

This study provides data on the environmental sustainability, economic profitability, and gastrointestinal tract development of Siberian sturgeon diets containing black soldier fly full-fat larvae meal (BSFL) for a fish meal (FM) and fish oil (FO) replacement. BSFL was used at 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30% of the diet, replacing by up to 61.3% of FM and 95.4% of FO. BSFL positively affected the feed efficiency ratio, and lowered FM and FO usage per kg of fish gain. All the BSFL diets showed a sustainable fish-in fish-out (FIFO) ratio, which was lowered by up to 75% in comparison to the control. Economic assessment per kg of fish gain showed that the most lucrative variants were variants with 10% and 15% BSFL, it finds a mode of action in improvements of the gastrointestinal tract development, including increased pyloric caeca and proximal intestine shares and enhanced villus height and area. Thus, in Siberian sturgeon, BSFL may be used not only as an FM and FO replacer but also as a functional material due to its feed utilization and beneficial health effects, which are reflected in its high sustainability and favourable economics. Full article

2020

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17 pages, 316 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Partially Defatted Hermetia illucens Larva Meal in Diet of Eurasian Perch (Perca fluviatilis) Juveniles

by Vlastimil Stejskal, Hung Quang Tran, Marketa Prokesova, Tatyana Gebauer, Pham Thai Giang, Francesco Gai and Laura Gasco

Animals 2020, 10(10), 1876; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10101876 - 14 Oct 2020

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 4213

Abstract

Insect meal is gaining increased attention in aquafeed formulations due to high protein content and an essential amino acid profile similar to that of fishmeal. To investigate insect meal in feed for European perch Perca fluviatilis, a promising candidate for European intensive [...] Read more.

Insect meal is gaining increased attention in aquafeed formulations due to high protein content and an essential amino acid profile similar to that of fishmeal. To investigate insect meal in feed for European perch Perca fluviatilis, a promising candidate for European intensive culture, we replaced standard fishmeal with partially defatted black soldier fly Hermetia illucens larva meal at rates of 0%, 20%, 40% and 60% (groups CON, H20, H40 and H60, respectively) and compared growth performance, somatic indices, hematological parameters, whole-body proximate composition and occurrence of spleen lipidosis. In addition, we assessed the economic and environmental sustainability of the tested feeds by calculating economic conversion ratio (ECR) and economic profit index (EPI). The tested groups did not differ in survival rate. Significant differences were documented in final body weight and specific growth rate, with the highest values in CON, H20 and H40. The proximate composition of fish whole-body at the end of the experiment did not differ in dry matter, crude protein or ether extract, while organic matter, ash and gross energy composition showed significant differences. The fatty acid content and n-3/n-6 ratio showed a decreasing trend with increasing H. illucens larva meal inclusion. No differences were found in hematological parameters among tested groups. The H. illucens larva meal inclusion significantly affected ECR and EPI, even at 20% inclusion level the cost of diets did not differ from the control fish meal based diet. Results suggested that 40% inclusion of H. illucens larva meal can be used successfully in standard diets for perch. Full article

16 pages, 1302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improvement of Cecal Commensal Microbiome Following the Insect Additive into Chicken Diet

by Agata Józefiak, Abdelbasset Benzertiha, Bartosz Kierończyk, Anna Łukomska, Izabela Wesołowska and Mateusz Rawski

Animals 2020, 10(4), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10040577 - 30 Mar 2020

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 3950

Abstract

Gastrointestinal microbiota play an important role in regulating the metabolic processes of animals and humans. A properly balanced cecal microbiota modulates growth parameters and the risk of infections. The study examined the effect of the addition of 0.2% and 0.3% of Tenebrio molitor [...] Read more.

Gastrointestinal microbiota play an important role in regulating the metabolic processes of animals and humans. A properly balanced cecal microbiota modulates growth parameters and the risk of infections. The study examined the effect of the addition of 0.2% and 0.3% of Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas morio on cecal microbiome of broilers. The material was the cecum digesta. The obtained DNA was analyzed using 16S rRNA next generation sequencing. The results of the study show that the addition of a relatively small amount of Z. morio and T. molitor modulates the broiler cecum microbiome composition. The most positive effect on cecal microbiota was recorded in the 0.2% Z. morio diet. A significant increase in the relative amount of genus Lactobacillus, represented by the species Lactobacillus agilis and the amount of bacteria in the Clostridia class, was observed. Moreover, the addition of 0.2% ZM resulted in a significant increase of relative abundance of the family Bifidobacteriaceae with the highest relative abundance of genus Bifidobacterium pseudolongum. The obtained results indicate that the addition of a relatively small amount of insect meal in broiler diet stimulates colonization by probiotic and commensal bacteria, which may act as barriers against infection by pathogenic bacteria. Full article

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15 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Partially Defatted Tenebrio molitor Larva Meal in Diets for Grow-Out Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum): Effects on Growth Performance, Diet Digestibility and Metabolic Responses

by Giulia Chemello, Manuela Renna, Christian Caimi, Inês Guerreiro, Aires Oliva-Teles, Paula Enes, Ilaria Biasato, Achille Schiavone, Francesco Gai and Laura Gasco

Animals 2020, 10(2), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10020229 - 31 Jan 2020

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 5928

Abstract

Insect meals are good candidates to replace fishmeal as new protein sources in aquafeeds. This study evaluated the effects of fishmeal replacement with different dietary inclusion levels of a partially defatted Tenebrio molitor (L.) larva meal (TM) on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss [...] Read more.

Insect meals are good candidates to replace fishmeal as new protein sources in aquafeeds. This study evaluated the effects of fishmeal replacement with different dietary inclusion levels of a partially defatted Tenebrio molitor (L.) larva meal (TM) on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum) growth, diet digestibility, and hepatic intermediary metabolism. A 154-day growth trial was performed with 252 rainbow trout (78.3 ± 6.24 g) randomly divided into twelve tanks and fed four experimental diets containing increasing levels of TM: 0% (TM0), 25% (TM25), 50% (TM50), and 100% (TM100) of fishmeal substitution, corresponding to TM dietary inclusion levels of 0%, 5%, 10%, and 20%, respectively. A digestibility trial was performed feeding 180 rainbow trout (94.6 ± 7.31 g) with the experimental diets used in the growth trial. The growth parameters were not affected by TM dietary inclusion. Regarding the evaluated apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC), only the ADC of crude protein was affected, showing the following trend: TM0 = TM25 > TM50 > TM100. The activities of key hepatic amino acid catabolic and lipogenic enzymes were not affected by the dietary composition. The results suggest that a partially defatted TM could totally replace fishmeal in commercial rainbow trout diets without negative effects on fish performance. Full article

15 pages, 281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Yellow Mealworm Meal as a Protein Feedstuff in the Diet of Broiler Chicks

by Usman Elahi, Jing Wang, You-biao Ma, Shu-geng Wu, Jinlong Wu, Guang-hai Qi and Hai-jun Zhang

Animals 2020, 10(2), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10020224 - 30 Jan 2020

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 7269

Abstract

Yellow mealworm meal (MWM) as a protein feedstuff in the broiler diet was investigated based on the growth performance, hematological characteristics, carcass, and meat quality of broiler chicks. A total of 700 one-day-old Ross 308 male broiler chicks were assigned to five dietary [...] Read more.

Yellow mealworm meal (MWM) as a protein feedstuff in the broiler diet was investigated based on the growth performance, hematological characteristics, carcass, and meat quality of broiler chicks. A total of 700 one-day-old Ross 308 male broiler chicks were assigned to five dietary MWM treatments containing 0%, 2%, 4%, and 8% dried MWM or 10.48% fresh mealworm (corresponding to 4% dried MWM). For each treatment, there were seven pens with 20 chicks each. The nutritional profile of dried MWM is comparable to all conventional protein feedstuffs. MWM significantly increased BW and ADG (linear and quadratic, p < 0.05), and FCR was best at 4% MWM inclusion level (quadratic, p < 0.10) for broiler chicks during the starter phase. The predicted MWM levels for optimal starter BW and ADG were 4.13% and 3.84%. Hematological characteristics of broiler chicks fed on the MWM diet did not differ or showed small change within the physiological range. A fresh 10.48% mealworm diet significantly reduced the blood LZM for the grower. Broiler Chicks fed on fresh 10.48% mealworm had a significantly reduced abdominal fat percentage compared to the 4% dried MWM counterparts. MWM did not significantly affect meat quality. Taken together, MWM inclusion in broiler diet is acceptable as a protein feedstuff, and a 4% level could stimulate early growth in the starter phase. Full article

15 pages, 1229 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Could Dietary Black Soldier Fly Meal Inclusion Affect the Liver and Intestinal Histological Traits and the Oxidative Stress Biomarkers of Siberian Sturgeon (Acipenser baerii) Juveniles?

by Christian Caimi, Laura Gasco, Ilaria Biasato, Vanda Malfatto, Katia Varello, Marino Prearo, Paolo Pastorino, Maria Cristina Bona, Danila Raffaella Francese, Achille Schiavone, Antonia Concetta Elia, Ambrosius Josef Martin Dörr and Francesco Gai

Animals 2020, 10(1), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10010155 - 16 Jan 2020

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 6018

Abstract

The trial investigates if a highly defatted Hermetia illucens larva meal (H) at two dietary inclusion levels and a vegetable protein based diet (VEG) influences the normal gut and liver histology and the oxidative stress biomarkers in liver and kidney of Siberian sturgeon [...] Read more.

The trial investigates if a highly defatted Hermetia illucens larva meal (H) at two dietary inclusion levels and a vegetable protein based diet (VEG) influences the normal gut and liver histology and the oxidative stress biomarkers in liver and kidney of Siberian sturgeon juveniles. Fish were fed four diets: one control diet (H0) containing 70% of fishmeal (FM), two diets including 18.5% (H185) and 37.5% (H375) of highly defatted H in substitution for 25% and 50% of FM, and one vegetable protein based diet (VEG). At the end of a growth trial, 12 fish per treatment were sacrificed by over-anaesthesia to collect 12 liver and 5 distal intestine samples for histological analyses, as well as 12 liver and kidney samples for biochemical analyses. The H and VEG diets did not significantly affect the histology of liver and distal intestine, but alterations of the oxidative stress biomarkers were detected at the highest inclusion level of H (37.5%). In order to avoid unfavorable effects on the fish health, an inclusion level up to 18.5% of H is recommended for Siberian sturgeon juveniles. Full article

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2019

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12 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas morio Full-Fat Meals in Broiler Chicken Diets: Effects on Nutrients Digestibility, Digestive Enzyme Activities, and Cecal Microbiome

by Abdelbasset Benzertiha, Bartosz Kierończyk, Mateusz Rawski, Agata Józefiak, Krzysztof Kozłowski, Jan Jankowski and Damian Józefiak

Animals 2019, 9(12), 1128; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9121128 - 12 Dec 2019

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 6126

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of insect full-fat meals added in relatively small amounts to a complete diet on the coefficients of apparent ileal digestibility, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations, bacterial enzymes, and the microbiota community in the cecal digesta [...] Read more.

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of insect full-fat meals added in relatively small amounts to a complete diet on the coefficients of apparent ileal digestibility, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations, bacterial enzymes, and the microbiota community in the cecal digesta of broiler chickens. In total, 600 one-day-old female Ross 308 broiler chicks were randomly assigned to six dietary treatments with 10 replicate pens/treatment and 10 birds/pen. The groups consisted of a negative control (NC) with no additives; a positive control (PC; salinomycin 60 ppm), and supplementation with 0.2% or 0.3% Tenebrio molitor or Zophobas morio full-fat meals. Z. morio (0.2%) addition increased the activities of α- and β-glucosidase and α-galactosidase. Dietary insects significantly decreased the cecal counts of the Bacteroides–Prevotella cluster in comparison to those in the NC and PC. Whereas, Clostridium perfringens counts were increased in the broiler chickens subjected to the 0.3% Z. morio treatment. In conclusion, small amounts of full-fat insect meals added to broiler diets were capable of reducing the abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria, such as the Bacteroides–Prevotella cluster and Clostridium perfringens. In addition, this supplementation was able to stimulate the GIT microbiome to produce enzymes, especially glycolytic enzymes. Full article

19 pages, 1476 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Dietary Replacement of Fishmeal by Insect Meal on Growth Performance, Blood Profiles and Economics of Growing Pigs in Kenya

by Shaphan Y. Chia, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Isaac M. Osuga, Alphonce O. Alaru, David M. Mwangi, Macdonald Githinji, Sevgan Subramanian, Komi K. M. Fiaboe, Sunday Ekesi, Joop J. A. van Loon and Marcel Dicke

Animals 2019, 9(10), 705; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9100705 - 20 Sep 2019

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 9331

Abstract

Pig production is one of the fastest growing livestock sectors. Development of this sector is hampered by rapidly increasing costs of fishmeal (FM), which is a common protein source in animal feeds. Here, we explored the potential of substituting FM with black soldier [...] Read more.

Pig production is one of the fastest growing livestock sectors. Development of this sector is hampered by rapidly increasing costs of fishmeal (FM), which is a common protein source in animal feeds. Here, we explored the potential of substituting FM with black soldier fly larval meal (BSFLM) on growth and blood parameters of pigs as well as economic aspects. At weaning, 40 hybrid pigs, i.e., crossbreeds of purebred Large White and Landrace were randomly assigned to five iso-nitrogenous and iso-energetic dietary treatments: Control (0% BSFLM and 100% FM (T0)), and FM replaced at 25% (T25), 50% (T50), 75% (T75) and 100% (T100) with BSFLM. Average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were calculated for the whole trial. Hematological and serum biochemical parameters, the cost–benefit ratio (CBR) and return on investment (RoI) were evaluated. No significant effect of diet type was observed on feed intake and daily weight gain. Red or white blood cell indices did not differ among diets. Pigs fed T25, T75 and T100, had lower platelet counts compared to T0 and T50. Dietary inclusion of BSFLM did not affect blood total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein. CBR and RoI were similar for the various diets. In conclusion, BSFLM is a suitable and cost-effective alternative to fishmeal in feed for growing pigs. Full article

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14 pages, 543 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quality and Consumer Acceptance of Meat from Rabbits Fed Diets in Which Soybean Oil is Replaced with Black Soldier Fly and Yellow Mealworm Fats

by Laura Gasco, Sihem Dabbou, Francesco Gai, Alberto Brugiapaglia, Achille Schiavone, Marco Birolo, Gerolamo Xiccato and Angela Trocino

Animals 2019, 9(9), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9090629 - 29 Aug 2019

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6224

Abstract

This trial investigated the effect of the dietary inclusion of Hermetia illucens (H) and Tenebrio molitor (T) fats as alternative lipid sources for growing rabbits, and assessed the carcass characteristics; proximate composition; lipid peroxidation, and fatty acid profile of the meat, as well [...] Read more.

This trial investigated the effect of the dietary inclusion of Hermetia illucens (H) and Tenebrio molitor (T) fats as alternative lipid sources for growing rabbits, and assessed the carcass characteristics; proximate composition; lipid peroxidation, and fatty acid profile of the meat, as well as consumer acceptance. At weaning, 200 crossbred rabbits (1051 ± 138 g initial body weight) were allotted to five isolipidic (4% dry matter (DM)) dietary treatments: a control diet (C) containing 1.5% of soybean oil, and four experimental diets in which soybean oil was partially (50%) or totally (100%) substituted by H (H50 and H100) or T (T50 and T100) fats. The carcass characteristics, the meat quality traits, and the consumer acceptance of the cooked meat were not affected. The fat content of Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle of the rabbits was 1.1% on average. In the case of rabbit fed the H diets (average of diets H50 and H100), the same muscles revealed a higher saturated fatty acid proportion (47.1% vs. 39.7% and 40.8%, respectively) and a lower polyunsaturated fatty acid proportion than the rabbits fed the C and T diets (average of diets T50 and T100) (26.5% vs. 31.7% and 29.7%) (p < 0.001). The meat of the rabbits fed the diets containing insect fat (average for H and T diets) was less susceptible to oxidation (0.24 vs. 0.39 mg malondialdehyde/kg meat in the C group; p < 0.01). Full article

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17 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hermetia illucens Larvae Reared on Different Substrates in Broiler Quail Diets: Effect on Physicochemical and Sensory Quality of the Quail Meat

by Marco Cullere, Michael Josias Woods, Liesel van Emmenes, Elsje Pieterse, Louwrens Christiaan Hoffman and Antonella Dalle Zotte

Animals 2019, 9(8), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9080525 - 2 Aug 2019

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 5123

Abstract

This research aimed at improving the fatty acid (FA) profile of Hermetia illucens larvae (HI) and evaluating the effects of their inclusion in growing broiler quails’ diets on the meat physicochemical quality, including detailed amino acid (AA) and FA profiles, sensory traits, and [...] Read more.

This research aimed at improving the fatty acid (FA) profile of Hermetia illucens larvae (HI) and evaluating the effects of their inclusion in growing broiler quails’ diets on the meat physicochemical quality, including detailed amino acid (AA) and FA profiles, sensory traits, and retail display. HI larvae were reared on two different substrates: layer mash (HI1) and 50:50 layer mash/fish offal (HI2). A total of 300 10-day-old quails were allocated to the three dietary groups (five replicates/each): a soybean meal-based diet was formulated (Control), and two other diets were formulated that included either 10% HI1 or HI2. Quails were fed the experimental diets until slaughter. Diets were formulated to be isonitrogenous and isoenergetic. Breast meat quality was affected by the dietary treatments, which displayed different proximate compositions and AA and FA profiles. Meat physical quality, sensory profile, and retail display remained unaffected for the most part. Overall, results showed that it is possible to improve the FA profile of the HI-fed quails’ meat and thus lipid quality through substrate modulation of the HI’s diet. Full article

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