Lipids from Hermetia illucens, an Innovative and Sustainable Source

Abstract

The exponential increase of global demand for proteins and lipids can no longer be satisfied by classical sources. High amounts of CO2 produced by intensive livestock breeding and its effects on the environment are the main factors that prevent the use of animals as primary sources for proteins and lipids, calling for the use of new sustainable sources, such as insects. The massive breeding of bioconverter insects as a feed source has been a major topic in recent years, with both economic and scientific aspects related to rearing and subsequent processing optimization. The larvae of Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) (also known as Black Soldier Fly) can be used for the eco-sustainable production of proteins and lipids with high biological and economic value. Lipids can be obtained from BSF bioconversion processes and are present in high quantities in the last instar larvae and prepupae. Fats obtained from BSF are used as animal feed ingredients, in the formulation of several products for personal care, and in biodiesel production. To enable the use of insect-derived lipids, it is important to understand how to optimize their extraction. Here, we summarize the published information on the composition, the extraction methods, and the possible applications of the BSF lipid component.

Characterization of chitin and chitosan derived from Hermetia illucens, a further step in a circular economy process

“…These farms generate side streams consisting of chitin-rich biomasses that could be subsequently processed for the extraction of this polymer. Among insects, Hermetia illucens , the black soldier fly, is reared by about 80% of the European insect farms thanks to its excellent bioconversion ability 43 – 45 : larvae are able to feed on decaying organic substrates transforming them into a biomass of high biological value, composed of protein and lipid to use mainly in feed 46 , 47 , but also in energetic and cosmetic fields 48 , 49 , or to extract molecules of pharmacological interest 50 – 53 . H. illucens life cycle consists of five larval stages, followed by pre-pupal and pupal stages from which the adult fly emerges.…”

Nutritional value of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae processed by different methods

“…Wang and Shelomi [8] have also highlighted this advantage with specific reference to BSFL. Apart from that, BSFL has also been bio-prospected for its potential as a source of antimicrobial peptides [9][10][11][12], chitin [13][14][15] and lipids [16].…”

Clanis bilineata tsingtauica: A Sustainable Edible Insect Resource

“…Insects provide various ecological services vital to human survival. They play essential roles in plant reproduction, pest control, waste biodegradation, novel food and feed production, and inspiring technology and engineering methods [2]. With the implementation of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 'Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development' [3], insects can provide several benefits to humans and the environment.…”