Insects as Animal Feed: A New Promising Sector

Dear Colleagues,

With the increasing world population expected by 2050, and the shift towards the consumption of more animal products, the quest for alternative and sustainable nutrient sources for animal feed is of paramount importance.

Over the last few years, it has been shown that insects could represent a valuable solution: They are rich in nutrients (proteins, fat, and energy) but also contain interesting biocompounds (chitin, antimicrobial peptides, and fatty acids) able to stimulate the immune system or to modulate animal microbiota and, subsequently, to optimize animal growth and health.

Moreover, following the principle of Circular Economy, some insect species are able to be grown on low value organic substrates, leading to valuable products that find applications not only in feed but also in industry or biomedical fields.

Studies performed so far in livestock nutrition using insect-derived products show promising results, but as industry interest grows, further information is needed to fully assess the potential of these innovative ingredients. In particular, further research is needed on the complete nutritional value of insects (e.g., real insect protein content and digestibility values, vitamin and mineral contents), on how insect nutritional value can be manipulated through rearing systems and insect diets, on the effects on animal products’ quality, and consumer acceptance.

Original manuscripts that address any aspects of live insects, insect-based meals, fat or other derived products (chitin, antimicrobial peptides, etc.) in animal feed are welcome.

Topics of this Topical Collection on the importance of insects as feed therefore include:

• Insect breeding on organic substrates
• Biotic and abiotic factors affecting the growth of insects for feed purposes
• Optimal inclusion levels in animal diets
• Insect meal digestibility
• Impact of insects on animal product quality
• Effect of insect biocompounds on animal health and immune response
• Consumer perception and acceptance of insects in animal feeds

Prof. Laura Gasco
Collection Editor

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