Insects as Alternative Sources of Protein for Food and Feed

With significant concerns about the environmental impact of conventional crop and livestock production, there is a growing interest in utilising novel alternative sources of protein in both human and animal diets. Insects have long been consumed by an array of species, such as birds, fish and mammals, including humans.

Insects as alternative sources of protein for food and feed provides a comprehensive overview of the recent research undertaken in this rapidly-expanding area. The book reviews the production and application of black soldier flies, yellow mealworms and other insects as alternative protein sources in poultry, pig and fish feed, as well as their nutritional benefits and challenges that can arise as a result of their use.

Through its considered approach, the book explores how the safety of insect-derived protein can be ensured across the supply chain, as well as how we can optimise its use as a sustainable feed and food source which contributes to a more resilient food system.

• Reviews the nutritional benefits, applications and challenges of using protein from black soldier flies and yellow mealworms in poultry, pig and fish feed

• Considers recent advances in the development of mass breeding/rearing techniques for the major insect species used as food or feed

• Explores some of the key issues currently facing the sector, such as the need to ensure product safety, the development of effective extraction techniques and consumer attitudes towards eating protein derived from insects