Summary

The proposed project generally aims to evaluate the growth performance of aquaculture carnivorous fish such as salmon, trout, sea bass and sea bream, fed with whole flours derived from larvae of the insect Hermetia illucens reared on by-products of the agri-food chain.

Technology Description

The proposed project generally aims to evaluate the growth performance of aquaculture carnivorous fish  such as salmon, trout, sea bass and sea bream, fed with whole flours derived from larvae of the insect Hermetia illucens reared on by-products of the agri-food chain. The first step of the project involves the preparation of experimental diets consisting of agro-industrial processing waste for the rearing of the bioconverter insect H. illucens. The by-products will be tested in combination, to identify an ideal mixture for larval growth, that ensure the formulation of an optimal diet for the growth of larvae in a massive way. The larvae reared on the “best” diet, when reaching their maximum nutritional content, will be separated from the residual material by sieving and will be directed to the drying process and subsequent grinding.

Main advantages

• Flour with a better nutritional profile than soy;
• Use of organic waste with a view on recycling and using waste materials

Stage of development

The largescale breeding of Hermetia illucens larvae has been already optimized on the most promising substrates, as well as protocols for the optimal separation of larvae from remaining frass and subsequent drying process .

Challenge and needs

• New sources from which to produce flour;
• Optimize the use of biological “material”

Intellectual property

The technology is not yet protected by a patent.

Potential markets and targets

The project addresses the need, in the animal feed and in the aquaculture sector, for alternative sources of proteins.

Potential partners

producers of feed in general and fish feed for aquaculture.