INSFEED2: Insect Feed for Poultry, Fish and Pig Production in Sub-Saharan Africa
Poultry, fish, and pig production are constrained by a shortage of animal feed protein. Currently the quantity, quality, and cost of feed undermines efforts to meet the growing consumer demand for animal protein in eastern and southern Africa. Insects represent an alternative protein source to tackle these development challenges in a sustainable manner. IDRC supported a pilot project (from 2014-2017) that demonstrated the technical feasibility and economic profitability of this solution and established standards that guide the use of insects in animal feed.
Building upon the strong results of the project, the research team is proposing to develop gender-responsive business models suitable for job creation and income generation in small and medium-scale enterprises for men, women, and youth farmers. It will analyze and compare outcomes from different upscaling pathways and assess the performance of insect colonies and livestock produced with insect-based feed under field conditions in various agro-ecological zones. Policymakers, the private sector, NGOs, and farmers will be engaged at different levels.
The study’s multidisciplinary approach will include training 11,070 households and 60 small and medium enterprises in Kenya in mass insect rearing and processing for feed and backstopping.
The project will strengthen the capacity of 100 young men and women entrepreneurs in business skills development, while the technology will be fine-tuned in Kenya and Uganda.
This project is funded through the Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund (CultiAF), a joint program of IDRC and the Australian International Food Security Research Centre of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. CultiAF supports research to achieve long-term food security in eastern and southern Africa.
Project ID
108866
Project Status
Completed
End Date
Duration
30 months
IDRC Officer
Mercy Rurii
Total Funding
CA$ 1,380,604.00
Location
Kenya
Uganda
Institution Country
Kenya
Project Leader
Chrysantus Tanga
Institution
International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology
Institution Website
Outputs
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Socio-economic and environmental implications of replacing conventional poultry feed with insect-based feed in Kenya Article
The article considers the positive viability of insect farming for animal feed production, due to its low land and water requirements, its low ecological footprint, and its ‘circular economy’ contribution – by converting biowaste into high-quality feed ingredients. The growing scarcity of resources for feed production, as well as environmental concerns, highlight the unsustainability of conventional feed sources. The study assesses the potential socio-economic benefits of black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) to the Kenyan poultry sector. The findings suggest that greater investment to promote BSFLM could boost economic, environmental and social sustainability. Author(s): Abro, Zewdu, Kassie, Menale, Tanga, Chrysantus, Beesigamukama, Dennis, Diiro, Gracious Language: English |
Trapping, identification and rearing of edible palm weevils in Kenya and Uganda Article
Results of this study can be used to guide an integrated Rhynchophorus phoenicis management system with a dual benefit of protecting plants from a weevil attack, and utilizing the weevils to improve human nutrition. Palm weevil trapping, without insecticides, could double as a pest management technique as well as a source of edible palm weevil. Palm weevils, Rhynchophorus (Coleoptera) are devastating invasive pests of palms, and as well, delicacies in many communities. This study evaluated ethylacetate and 3-methyly-octan-4-ol for trapping palm weevils from coconut, oil and raffia palms in Kenya and Uganda; taking into account the distance of traps on oil palm from a forest of raffia palm. Author(s): Egonyu, J.P., Gitonga, K.J., Khamis, F.M., Copeland, R.S., Finyange, P. Language: English |
Antimicrobial activity of chemically and biologically treated chitosan prepared from black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) pupal shell waste Article
This study presents the first comparative analysis of chemical and biological extraction of chitin and chitosan from black soldier fly (BSF) pupal exuviae. The antibacterial activity of chitosan was also evaluated. Chemical and biological extraction gave a chitin yield of 10.18% and 11.85%, respectively. Biological extraction gives high yields as compared to chemical extraction and can be used as an alternative method since it is inexpensive and eco‐friendly. A maximum chitosan yield of 6.58% was achieved via chemical treatment. The findings demonstrate that chitosan from BSF pupal exuviae could become a novel therapeutic agent for drug development against resistant strains of bacteria. Author(s): Lagat, Mevin Kiprotich, Were, Samuel, Ndwigah, Francis, Kemboi, Violah Jepkogei, Kipkoech, Carolyne, Tanga, Chrysantus Mbi Language: English |
Global population genetic structure and demographic trajectories of the black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens Article
Compared with conventional livestock, genetic resources of farmed insects remain poorly characterised. The paper identifies 16 well-distinguished genetic clusters indicating substantial global population structure of Black Soldier Fly (BSF; Hermetia Illucens). The data revealed genetic hotspots in central South America and successive northwards range expansions within the indigenous ranges of the Americas. The study highlights genetic footprints characteristic of progressing domestication due to increasing socio-economic importance of H. illucens, and ongoing introgression between domesticated strains globally traded for large-scale farming, and wild populations in some regions. Author(s): Kaya, Cengiz, Generalovic, Tomas N., Ståhls, Gunilla, Hauser, Martin, Samayoa, Ana C. Language: English |
Identification of edible short- and long-horned grasshoppers and their host plants in East Africa Article
This study adopted morphological and molecular analysis to identify edible grasshoppers and their associated food host plants in Kenya and Uganda. Host plants were identified through molecular analysis of the gut contents of the grasshoppers. Grasshoppers are among the most popular edible insects in East Africa. As an alternative protein, they contribute to improved nutrition and food security, livelihoods, and employment. The study provides a detailed breakdown of morphometric data and species identification factors along with sequencing, identification and phylogenetic analysis of plant and insect DNA. Author(s): Leonard, Alfonce, Khamis, Fathiya M., Egonyu, James P., Kyamanywa, Samuel, Ekesi, Sunday Language: English |
Can black soldier fly Desmodium intortum larvae-based diets enhance the performance of Cobb500 broiler chickens and smallholder farmers’ profit in Kenya? Article
This study aimed to evaluate the performance of broiler chickens fed on black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) (Hermetia illucens) and Greenleaf desmodium (Desmodium intortum)-based meals. Study findings show the BSFL-Desmodium mixture could be a valuable replacement for the protein component in conventional feed. Growth performance, carcass quality, and profitability of the poultry were evaluated under various commercial pathways (doorstep, retail, whole, and assorted). The poultry sector is one of the fastest growing industries in Kenya. The highest volume of both poultry, meat, and eggs is produced by local backyard systems characterized by low input and low productivity. Author(s): Mutisya, Mary M., Agbodzavu, Mawufe K., Kinyuru, John N., Tanga, Chrysantus M., Gicheha, Mathew Language: English |
Global overview of locusts as food, feed and other uses Article
This review assesses the potential of harnessing locust swarms for beneficial uses as a more sustainable management strategy than using pesticides. As well, it highlights the global distribution of locust species; their nutritional value; historical practices of their use as food, feed and other applications; harvesting technologies; and regulatory framework. Locusts have traditionally been consumed by humans or fed to animals for millennia. The nutritional composition is comparable or superior to that of conventional meat. They are potential raw materials for chitin, oil and nutraceutical products. Safety concerns in the beneficial use of locusts are insecticides, allergens and microbial contaminants. Author(s): Egonyu, J.P., Subramanian, S., Tanga, C.M., Dubois, T., Ekesi, S., Kelemu, S. Language: English |
Gendered analysis of the demand for poultry feed in Kenya Article
The study obtained estimates of demand elasticities for common poultry feed (mixed feed, grain, and leafy vegetables) in both male-headed and female-headed households. In Kenya, poultry farming is a major livestock subsector contributing to both income and food security of households. Women form an important link between the success of the poultry enterprise and its contribution to alleviating poverty. Results of the study show that demand for mixed feed is inelastic with respect to the price of mixed feed and vegetables for both farmer categories; however, the value of elasticity (in absolute terms) for female-headed households almost doubles elasticities found for male-headed households. Author(s): Machariaa, John Njenga, Diirob, Gracious Malton, Busieneia, John Rono, Muneia, Kimpei, Affognon, Hippolyte D. Language: English |
Integrating temperature-dependent life table data into insect life cycle model for predicting the potential distribution of Scapsipedus icipe Hugel & Tanga Article
A new edible cricket species from Kenya of the genus Scapsipedus (Scapsipedus icipe Hugel & Tanga) is described through this study. Temperature-dependent development, survival, reproductive and life table parameters of S. icipe was generated and integrated into advanced Insect Life Cycle Modeling software to describe relative S. icipe population increase and spatial spread based on nine constant temperature conditions. Findings provide first-time important information on the impact of temperature on the biology, establishment and spread of S. icipe across the Africa continent. The prospect of edible S. icipe production to become a new sector in food and feed industry is discussed. Author(s): Otieno, Magara H. J., Ayieko, Monica A., Niassy, Saliou, Salifu, Daisy, Abdelmutalab, Azrag G. A. Language: English |
Diversity, host plants and potential distribution of edible Saturniid Caterpillars in Kenya Article
Saturniids are big colorful caterpillars with spines on their bodies, usually found in shrubs and trees in Sub-Saharan Africa. They are rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The study identifies edible saturniids, diversity, their host plants, their current distribution and to predict possible effects of climate change on their distribution. The paper provides detailed information (including photographs) of seven species of edible saturniids namely Gonimbrasia zambesina, Gonimbrasia krucki, Bunaea alcinoe, Gonimbrasia cocaulti, Gonimbrasia belina, Gynanisa nigra and Cirina forda. Despite being highly nutritious, the diversity of edible saturniid caterpillars has not been studied in Kenya. Author(s): Kusia, Elizabeth Siago, Borgemeister, Christian, Khamis, Fathiya M., Copeland, Robert S., Tanga, Chrysantus M. Language: English |
Description of Eniacomorpha hermetiae Delvare sp. n. (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Chalcididae) a pupal parasitoid of Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera, Stratiomyidae), and a potential threat to mass production of the fly as a feed supplement for domestic… Article
Adult black soldier fly (BSF) Hermetia illucens are not pests, consume nothing but water or plant nectar, do not approach humans, do not bite or sting, and do not vector or disseminate any specific diseases. Hence, there is substantial interest in the use of BSF in organic waste management and as a feed supplement for domestic animals. One of the impediments to sustainable and successful mass production systems is parasitoids that attack BSF, and which may present a significant threat to BSF farming systems. This paper describes a parasitic wasp that may negatively impact efforts to mass produce BSF in Africa as a feed supplement for domestic animals. Author(s): DELVARE, GÉRARD, COPELAND, ROBERT S., TANGA, CHRYSANTUS M. Language: English |
In situ nitrogen mineralization and nutrient release by soil amended with black soldier fly frass fertilizer Article
Black soldier fly frass fertilizer (BSFFF) is effective on crop performance, but information on nitrogen mineralization and nutrient release capacity of soils amended with BSFFF is lacking. This study utilized field incubation experiments to investigate the ammonification, nitrification, microbial populations, and quantities of nutrients released by soils amended with BSFFF and commercial organic fertilizer (SAFI) for a period equivalent to two maize cropping seasons. The paper provides a detailed breakdown and analysis of results. BSFFF has a high potential to supply adequate nutrients for optimal crop production. Author(s): Beesigamukama, Dennis, Mochoge, Benson, Korir, Nicholas, Ghemoh, Changeh J., Subramanian, Sevgan, Tanga, Chrysantus M. Language: English |
Annex 18a : global media coverage of INSFEED 2 supported activities Article
This is a three-page bibliographic document providing links to references and media articles on the subject of insects (Black Soldier Fly) as feed for poultry, fish and pig production. Media articles span the globe regarding this novel agricultural innovation. Author(s): Tanga, Chrysantus, Dorothy, Nakimbugwe Language: English |
Annex 17 : impact of COVID 19 on male and female black soldier fly entrepreneurs in Kenya Report
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the project experienced delays in implementation. Training for group leaders was face to face. The project formed county-based groups of 50 Agripreneurs in the area of insect for feed. They were also engaged in identification of group leaders who were then trained and mentored for purposes of building further capacity among the members. The availability of both trainer’s manual and participant’s workbook facilitated interpretation and understanding. The report provides a detailed analysis of project activities and findings. Unlike other models which focus on transforming subsistence farmers into agricultural producers, the Living Lab model develops entrepreneurship as well as production capacity. Author(s): Wambalaba, Francis, Wachana, Paul, Wambalaba, Akosa, Sikalieh, Damary, Asena, Salome, Yogo, Carol Language: English |
INSFEED2 : insect feed for poultry, fish and pig production in Sub-Saharan Africa – phase 2 Report
The traceability and capacity to reliably produce black soldier fly (BSF) larvae at commercial scale on various waste streams in Kenya and Uganda have been established. The cost-effectiveness of BSF larvae meal (BSFLM) inclusion into small livestock diets has been demonstrated on-station and on-farm with significant gross profit margins, cost-benefit ratio and return on investment. This INSFEED 2 paper reports on scaling of the previous project phase. It details insect-based technologies under field conditions, testing different supply and upscaling pathways and has developed a gender sensitive business model suitable for men, women and young farmers. Author(s): Tanga, Chrysantus, Dorothy, Nakimbugwe Language: English |
Black soldier fly production : farmers guide Training Materials
This is an instruction manual for Kenyan smallholder farmers to start production of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Larvae as a substitute for omena fishmeal and soy in animal feed. It includes a “starter kit” as well as all aspects of preparation, risks, harvesting, processing, and cleaning, with a summary of production processes and costs. The production of the BSF on waste products of smallholder farmers provides the opportunity to produce protein rich animal feed. Not having to buy expensive feed with foreign protein ingredients such as soybean, and fishmeal, animal feed costs would decrease for farmers, leading to a more food secure economy. Author(s): Tanga, Chrysantus, Dorothy, Nakimbugwe Language: English |
Edible insects - specification part 1 : edible insects’ products Brief
Edible insects have been introduced as an alternative nutrient/protein, enhancing ingredients to existing food products in Kenya. This food standard specifies the requirements, sampling and test methods for edible insects’ products intended for human consumption, and provides a basis for assuring their safety and quality. Owing to susceptibility of insects to contaminations, it addresses parameters directly related to the safety and quality of the products, such as moisture contents, and heavy metal and microbiological contaminations, as well as offering guidance for packaging and labelling. Author(s): Chrysantus, Tanga, Nakimbugwe, Dorothy Language: English |
Permit to use the standardization mark : the standards act (CAP 496 of the laws of Kenya) Brief
These photographs depict the Kenya food standardization mark, showing the food commodity has passed inspection. In this case the standard is for insect products such as dried insect powder which can be used as a protein supplement. Author(s): Chrysantus, Tanga, Nakimbugwe, Dorothy Language: English |
Effect of Desmodium intortum and black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) based meal on sensory and physicochemical properties of broiler chicken meat in Kenya Article
Although few studies have been conducted on the sensory effects of adding legume forage such as Desmodium intortum in combination with Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) in poultry (broiler) diets, the increased sensory appeal of the D. intortum-BSFLM based diets is unique, and corroborates previous studies. In this study the physical attributes of meat derived from various treatments differed; the increased addition of D. intortum-BSFLM mixture has a significant effect on poultry meat, particularly in moisture retention, pH and water holding capacity. As well, the inclusion of BSFLM and D. intortum influenced the fatty acid profile. These attributes could be comparative to free-range chicken ‘kienyeji’. Author(s): Mutisya, M.M., Baleba, S.B.S., Kinyuru, J.N., Tanga, C.M., Gicheha, M. Language: English |
| Benefits of incorporating black soldier fly larvae meal into laying hen diet on the nutritional quality of eggs Article
Results of the study reveal that increased inclusion levels of black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) in hen diets caused significant increase in egg and yolk weight. Findings show that integration of insect protein did not compromise the physico-chemical properties of the eggs, which highlights the potential for marketing. BSF has significant advantages as feed for animals. The species tolerates many environmental conditions globally. The gut extract of BSF has high protease, lipase, and amylase activities, making it efficient for decomposing organic waste streams, turning wastes into nutrient-rich biomass, high in protein and suitable for animal feeds. Author(s): Mwangi, James K., Kinyuru, John N., Kahenya, Peter, Osuga, I. M., Salifu, Daisy |
Edible insects - specification part 2 : products containing edible insects Brief
Use of edible insects to enhance nutritional contents of food products, especially snacks, is viewed as a potential option to enhance human nutrition. This Kenya Standard specifies the requirements, sampling and test methods for products containing edible insects as an ingredient intended for human consumption. Traditionally, many communities were consuming insects as part of their normal diet, a trend reversed by urbanization and modern agriculture. An edible insect product is processed by heat-treating insects that have been harvested from domesticated farms, semi-cultivated farms or from wild harvesting; this can be whole insect or in powder form. Author(s): Chrysantus, Tanga, Nakimbugwe, Dorothy Language: English |
Production and handling of insects for food and feed - code of practice Brief
Insect farming and production for use in animal feed and as a substitute for nutrients such as protein, has become a novel option for farmers with much effort being put in place to enhance production of edible insects. The Kenya Standard code of practice was developed to guide farmers in Kenya on both confined and semi-cultivation of insects. It specifies the requirements for sustainable establishment and operation of wild harvested or domesticated insect farming, production and harvesting, including post harvest handling: storage, processing, packaging, labelling and transport of insects for human consumption and feed industry. Author(s): Chrysantus, Tanga, Nakimbugwe, Dorothy Language: English |
Consumers’ perception towards eggs from laying hens fed commercial black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal-based feeds Article
This study evaluates consumer perceptions of eggs from hens that are fed black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens)/ BSFL-based diets, and the socioeconomic factors that influence consumer perceptions in Kenya. Findings demonstrate that increased awareness creation and evidence-based demonstration regarding the benefits of BSFL-based feed in poultry production would improve consumer perception and foster uptake of this rapidly growing and emerging technology. The survey was conducted through a random sample of 200 consumers responsible for their household or family purchases. Author(s): Khaemba, Colleta Nabwile, Kidoido, Michael Mukembo, Owuor, George, Tanga, Chrysantus Mbi Language: English |
Chickens prefers eating insect meal : are consumers willing to pay for their eggs? Brief
Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) have been identified for mass rearing due to their ability to convert organic waste into high-quality crude protein (CP), fat, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals that are comparable or superior to that of fishmeal and soybean. Cost of protein in feed is highest in conventional feed at 49.09 US$ while lowest in 100% BSFL meal at 37.17 US$. There is a need for farmer training to increase consistency in production. A consumer survey shows 71% of male headed households willing to consume eggs produced from BSFL-fed hens compared to 66% of female headed households. Industry regulation is an important factor. Author(s): Chrysantus, Tanga, Nakimbugwe, Dorothy Language: English |
Novel soil booster : insect-composted organic fertilizer for increased crop yield, nutritional quality, and profitability Brief
Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae take only 5 weeks to produce mature organic fertilizer, compared to 12 – 24 weeks for conventional composting, and where BSF organic fertilizer is superior in nutrients to commercial organic fertilizers. The policy brief provides graphics and tables comparing BSF insect composted organic fertilizer (ICOF) with synthetic fertilizer (NPK) and commercially available organic fertilizer on maize, tomatoes, kales and French beans. The full potential of this technology for improved crop productivity requires more research as well as enabling policy interventions to regulate production and marketing, and to support scaling and adoption. Author(s): Chrysantus, Tanga, Nakimbugwe, Dorothy Language: English |
Broiler-grown meat from chicken fed insect meal coming soon to a table near you Brief
Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) and its larvae (BSFL), possess unique attributes such as high crude protein of at least 46%, low carbon footprint, contribution to a circular economy model and low initial investment costs. Feed millers will spend less financial resources to formulate feed that integrates insect meal as protein source. The cost of formulation decreases with increasing levels of BSFL. Compared to the other diets, 25% BSFL inclusion rate provides the farmer with gross margins (GM) that are greater than the total variable costs (TVC). Author(s): Chrysantus, Tanga, Nakimbugwe, Dorothy Language: English |
Determinants of profitability of black soldier fly farming enterprise in Kenya Article
Black Soldier Fly (BSF) farming is poised to provide high quality affordable alternative protein sources for animal feed production. This study aimed to assess determinants of profitability of the BSF enterprise. There is a need for more research at the commercial level. Due to limitations of the COVID-19 pandemic, in-depth interviews were conducted as there were few respondents. The mathematical model shows a strong positive correlation between the dependent (BSF farm enterprise gross margin) and independent variables (substrate, labour, farm size, level of education, household size, age and experience), with substrate and household size having a significantly positive relation. Author(s): Mutuku, K.V., Mukhebi, A.W., Orinda, M.A., Tanga, C.M. Language: English |
From farm to fork : crickets as alternative source of protein, minerals, and vitamins Article
The article/study determines nutrient composition of two cricket species and compares them with other plant and animal sources. Results reveal that crude protein contents of S. icipie and G. bimaculatus were similar, and comparable to other animal sources. The paper analyzes components of amino acids and nutritive compounds and concludes that edible crickets provide an opportunity to improve nutritional and food security in resource-poor populations. Author(s): Murugu, Dorothy K., Onyango, Arnold N., Ndiritu, Alex K., Osuga, Isaac M., Xavier, Cheset, Nakimbugwe, Dorothy, Tanga, Chrysantus M. Language: English |
Efficiency and improved profitability of insect-based aqua feeds for farming Nile Tilapia fish (oreochromis niloticus L.) Article
The study evaluated the suitability of black soldier fly larvae meal (BM) as an alternative protein to fish meal (FM) by investigating the effect of partially and completely substituting fishmeal with BM on growth and economic parameters. Increased productivity of aquaculture farmers is severely constrained by the high cost of fish feeds. The details of the research indicate that the BM33 formulation (33% BM and 77% FM) of feed caused a significantly higher fish weight gain. Substitutions with BM can significantly lower the cost of pelletized aquafeed. Policy makers can support BM integration in large scale feed manufacturing. Author(s): Wachira, Moses N., Osuga, Isaac M., Munguti, Jonathan M., Ambula, Mary K., Subramanian, Sevgan, Tanga, Chrysantus M. Language: English |
Cost-effectiveness of black soldier fly larvae meal as substitute of fishmeal in diets for layer chicks and growers Article
Study findings show that black soldier fly larvae meal (BLSM) is a promising sustainable alternative and cost-effective source of protein in the poultry industry. In many countries the current focus is to upscale improved hybrid layer birds to smallholder households, because these are commercially highly productive and profitable. Continued dependence on fish meal and soya bean meal is not sustainable. The article provides details of the study assessment of insect meal derived from BLSM. Results of the return on investment /cost-benefit are provided, demonstrating that substitution of insect meal supplement is a sustainable and cost-effective solution for smallholder poultry producers. Author(s): Sumbule, Esther Khayanga, Ambula, Mary Kivali, Osuga, Isaac Maina, Changeh, Janice Ghemoh, Mwangi, David Miano Language: English |
Black soldier fly-composted organic fertilizer enhances growth, yield, and nutrient quality of three key vegetable crops in Sub-Saharan Africa Article
The study compares performance of composted black soldier fly frass fertilizer (BSFFF), conventionally composted brewer’s spent grain (BSG), commercial organic fertilizer (Evergrow), and mineral [nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK)] fertilizer on growth, yield, N use efficiency, and nutritional quality of tomatoes, kales, and French beans under greenhouse and open-field conditions for two seasons. Findings show that the highest agronomic N use efficiency was achieved in sole BSFFF-treated plots compared to sole BSG and Evergrow. The Nitrogen taken up by the vegetables was significantly higher when BSFFF and NPK were integrated. Most soils in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are deficient in macronutrients and secondary nutrients [calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S) due to soil erosion and leaching losses. Author(s): Anyega, Abel O., Korir, Nicholas K., Beesigamukama, Dennis, Changeh, Ghemoh J., Nkoba, Kiatoko Language: English |
Insights in the global genetics and gut microbiome of black soldier fly, hermetia illucens : implications for animal feed safety control Article
This study delineates genetic variability and unravels gut microbiome complex of wild-collected and domesticated BSF populations from six continents using mitochondrial COI gene and 16S metagenomics. Alpha-diversity showed that the Kenyan and Thailand populations had the highest and lowest microbe diversity, respectively; while microbial diversity assessed through Bray Curtis distance showed United States (Maysville) and Netherlands populations to be the most dissimilar. The 16S data depicted larval gut bacterial families with economically important genera that might pose health risks to both animals and humans. To minimize risk of pathogen contamination along the insect-based feed value chain, this study recommends pre-treatment of feedstocks. Author(s): Khamis, Fathiya M., Ombura, Fidelis L. O., Akutse, Komivi S., Subramanian, Sevgan, Mohamed, Samira A. Language: English |
Organic waste substrates induce important shifts in gut microbiota of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.) : coexistence of conserved, variable, and potential pathogenic microbes Article
The sustainable utilization of black soldier fly (BSF) for recycling organic waste into nutrient-rich biomass such as high-quality protein additive, is gaining momentum. Its gut microbiota is thought to play an important role. The study provides the first comprehensive analysis of bacterial and fungal communities of BSF gut across untreated substrates and highlights conserved members, potential pathogens, and their interactions. Findings show most bacteria found in the BSF gut are transient, and are affected by the local environment. The study contributes to establishment of safety measures for future processing of BSF larval meals and the creation of legislation to regulate their use in animal feeds. Author(s): Tanga, Chrysantus M., Waweru, Jacqueline Wahura, Tola, Yosef Hamba, Onyoni, Abel Anyega, Khamis, Fathiya M. Language: English |
Farmers’ perceptions of commercial insect-based feed for sustainable livestock production in Kenya Article
This study evaluated farmer’s perceptions of commercial insect-based feed (IBF) products and assessed factors that would influence adoption. Findings show that over 90% of the farmers were willing to use IBF. The principal component analysis (PCA) identified feed performance; social acceptability of the use of insects in feed formulation; feed versatility and marketability of livestock products reared on IB as key attributes that would inform farmers’ purchase decisions. Public partnerships with resource-endowed farmers and farmer groups are recommended to improve knowledge sharing on IBF. Author(s): Okello, Afrika Onguko, Nzuma, Jonathan Makau, Otieno, David Jakinda, Kidoido, Michael, Tanga, Chrysantus Mbi Language: English |
Overview of antimicrobial compounds from African edible insects and their associated microbiota Article
This review discusses advances in the identification and bioactivity analysis of insect antimicrobial peptides (AMP) compounds, with a focus on small molecules associated with the microbiota of selected African edible insects. These molecules could be used as templates for developing next-generation drugs to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens. Previous research indicates that each insect species produces a distinct antimicrobial peptide that acts against specific microorganisms. The article analyzes several likely AMP-producing insects and their compounds. Edible insect-produced AMPs/small molecules’ chemistry receives little attention as researchers have concentrated on the discovery of antibacterial and antifungal peptides/polypeptides in plants. Author(s): Mudalungu, Cynthia M., Tanga, Chrysantus M., Kelemu, Segenet, Torto, Baldwyn Language: English |
Smallholder farmers’ knowledge and willingness to pay for insect-based feeds in Kenya Article
The study assessed farmers’ knowledge on edible insects as feed, their acceptance of integrating insect meals in animal feeds and willingness to pay (WTP) for insect-based feed (IBF) using a contingent valuation method. Results show over 70% of poultry, and 80% of fish farmers are aware that insects can be used as a feed ingredient. Poultry, pig and fish farmers who were interviewed accepted and showed willingness to pay for IBF. Increased extension services to educate famers on the nutritional benefits of insect meals in animal feeds and market opportunities could result in significantly reducing existing pressure on conventional fishmeal feed resources. Author(s): Chia, Shaphan Y., Macharia, John, Diiro, Gracious M., Kassie, Menale, Ekesi, Sunday, van Loon, Joop J.A., Dicke, Marcel, Tanga, Chrysantus M. Language: English |
Insect feed for poultry, fish and pig production in Kenya and Uganda Brief
Phase 1 of Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund (CultiAf) insects as feed (INSFEED) project established a strong scientific basis, demonstrated technical feasibility and economic profitability, and has established standards that guide the use of insects in animal feed. This second phase will test different supply and upscaling pathways, along with gender-sensitive business models suitable for job creation and income generation for men, women and young farmers in Kenya. Author(s): Cultivate Africa’s Future (CultiAf) Language: English |
Utilisation d’insectes dans la nourriture de la volaille, des poissons et du porc au Kenya et en Ouganda Dossiers
Author(s): Cultivate Africa’s Future (CultiAf) Language: French |