14-Feb-2023: Black Soldier Fly and its utilization in Poultry industry

Black soldier flies (BSF), scientifically known as Hermetia illucens, are becoming increasingly popular in the poultry industry. These flies are not only environmentally friendly but also provide a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources. In India, the utilization of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) is being explored as a sustainable and cost-effective source of protein for poultry feed.

Black Soldier Fly

Black Soldier flies have a distinctive black color and are approximately 16-22mm in length. They have a short lifespan of only 5-8 days and do not have functional mouthparts. The lifecycle of black soldier flies consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larvae of these flies are voracious eaters and can consume organic waste such as food scraps, animal manure, and agricultural byproducts. As a result, the larvae can be used to convert these wastes into a valuable protein source for poultry. They do not consume food during their adult stage and are not vectors for disease.

Benefits of Black Soldier Fly

BSF have numerous benefits that make them a valuable resource in the poultry industry. They provide an alternative to costly and often unsustainable protein sources such as fishmeal and soybean meal. They are also an environmentally friendly source of protein. Unlike traditional protein sources such as soy and fishmeal, which require large amounts of land and water, BSF require minimal resources to thrive. BSF larvae can be reared on various organic waste materials such as food scraps, animal manure, and agricultural by-products, making them an excellent way to repurpose waste and reduce waste disposal costs. Also, it can lead to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions and other negative environmental impacts.

Secondly, BSF larvae are highly nutritious and can be a valuable protein source for poultry. The larvae are rich in amino acids, lipids, and minerals, making them an ideal supplement for poultry feed. BSF larvae can also help improve the digestibility of other feed ingredients, leading to better feed conversion and reduced feed costs. This makes them an attractive option for poultry farmers who are looking to improve the quality of their feed and promote the growth and development of their birds. Furthermore, BSFL are a rich source of calcium, which is essential for eggshell formation in laying hens.

Utilization of Black Soldier Fly in the Poultry Industry

The use of BSFL in poultry farming is still in its infancy in India, but it has already shown promising results. A study conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi found that the inclusion of BSFL in the diet of broiler chickens improved their growth rate and feed conversion efficiency. The study also reported a decrease in the cost of feed by up to 50% when BSFL was used as a protein source.

The potential benefits of using BSFL in the poultry industry are not limited to just broiler chickens. In fact, BSFL can be used in the diet of all types of poultry, including layers, turkeys, and ducks. Furthermore, the use of BSFL can also have positive impacts on the environment by reducing the amount of organic waste that ends up in landfills.

The use of BSFL can improve the quality of feed, reduce the cost of production, and contribute to sustainable development. As the demand for sustainable protein sources continues to grow, it is likely that BSFL will play an increasingly important role in the poultry industry.