Nutritional Value of Silkworm Pupae (Bombyx mori) with Emphases on Fatty Acids Profile and Their Potential Applications for Humans and Animals

Abstract

Bombyx mori is an ideal lepidopteran species representative of many scientific studies, a model of studies for medicine and a significant insect from an ecological standpoint. This review was performed to summarize the fatty acids (FA) composition of silkworm pupae (SP) that are associated with other important compounds that could add value to SP, diversifying the ways of valorization. The proposal to complete plant-based feeds with insect-based feeds represents a viable option to beneficially impact human and animal health and the environment. The quality and quantity of fats consumed significantly impact the aetiology of certain diseases. The key compounds of fat named essential FA (EFA) substantially influence the prevention and treatment of several diseases through their nutraceutical functions. Due to its excellent profile in nutrients such as protein and fat, amino acids and fatty acids composition, SP has become an important alternative feed ingredient and source of EFA. SP is a by-product that was discarded in large quantities. Following the need to act to improve human health and reduce climate change impact, many researchers focused on studying SP applications in the medical and agricultural industries. Several authors noticed an improvement in the health markers by using SP. The feed cost for the animal was reduced with economic implications. Minimization of environmental impact was recorded. Few precautions were recommended regarding SP use, although they should not be ignored. The composition of SP and its potential for use in various industries provides us with persuasive arguments for continuing to develop the sericulture industry.

Silkworm Pupae Coupled with Glucose Control pH Mediates GABA Hyperproduction by Lactobacillus hilgardii

“…We successfully used silkworm pupae meal (approximately $0.5 per kg) instead of tryptone (over $140 per kg) to reduce GABA production costs. Furthermore, since silkworm pupae are used as a food source enriched in protein (60%), fatty acids (30%), chitosan (3-4%), and trace elements, they can be used as raw materials for food and medicine [43]. However, it is not clear which component enhances GABA synthesis and the regulatory mechanism of silkworm pupae in L. hilgardii.…”

Engenharia de Alimentos: tópicos físicos, químicos e biológicos - Volume 1

“…Os insetos são considerados alternativas para a alimentação humana e animal, contribuindo com a sustentabilidade da produção animal (Dalle-Zotte, 2019). Pesquisas já foram realizadas utilizando a mosca-soldado negro, Hermetia illucens (Lu et al, 2022;Makokha et al, 2023), mosca-doméstica, Musca domestica (Miranda et al, 2023), farinha da larva de Tenebrio molitor (Khanal et al, 2023), bicho-da-seda, Bombyx mori (Hãbeanu et al, 2023), dentre outros (Arantes et al, 2021) como fonte proteica alternativa.…”

An In-Depth Insight into the Profile, Mechanisms, Functions, and Transfer of Essential Amino Acids from Mulberry Leaves to Silkworm Bombyx mori L. Pupae and Fish

“…In the textile business, viscose and polyesters have partially replaced silk [2]. Meanwhile, scientists have been investigating novel applications of the by-products resulting throughout the chain value of sericulture other than silk thread [3]. Silkworms are subjected to successive complex metamorphosis throughout their four life stages (egg, larva, pupa, and adult).…”

“…Before metamorphosis into SWP, silkworm larvae take from mulberry leaves 72-86% of AAs associated with lipids and FAs, carbohydrates, cellulose, vitamins and minerals, and flavonoids. The positive effects of these bioactive compounds have been demonstrated in the pharmaceutical, healthcare, and animal feeding industries, among other fields [3,[6][7][8][9].…”