The nutritional value of Chrysomya albiceps larvae and pupae as alternative protein sources
Ashuman population continues to increase, the demand for protein sources has risen significantly. Insects have emerged as a promising alternative protein source.This studywas conducted to investigate the nutritional values of both larval and pupal stages of Chrysomya albiceps (C. albiceps) as well as the feed intake (FI) and the feed conversionratio(FCR).C.albicepsadultswereidentifiedbasedonmorphologicalcharacteristics,followedbyfurther molecular identification, reared under controlled laboratory conditions and provided with sugar solution, a protein milk mixture, and fresh chicken liver for oviposition and larval nourishment. First-instar larvae were divided into three replicates andrearedonchickenliver.Morphometricmeasurementswererecordedacrosslarvaldevelopment. Feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR)were assessed during the third instar.Larvae and pupae were subjected to drying to determine drymatter content and proximate analysis (including crude protein, fat, fibre and ash). Nutritional composition was further evaluated for amino acids,minerals, and fatty acids using standardized AOAC and instrumental methods (e.g. ICP-MS and GC-MS). Results comparing the larval and pupal stages of C. albiceps with Sarcophaga dux and other protein sources, revealed that C. albiceps offer higher protein and amino acid content with favorable proximate analysis.However, their mineral and fatty acidlevels are lower than soy oil and beef, but higher than its level observed in previous studied insects. In general, byincorporatinginsect protein into diets,we canaddresstherisingdemandforproteininamoresustainableandenvironmentallyfriendlymanner
Colorants are extensively used in the food, pharmaceutical, and textile industries. Synthetic azo dyes remain the most common colorants, despite concerns regarding their safety. This study aimed…
Dermestes maculatus, a globally distributed beetle of significant forensic importance, is commonly found on decomposing remains, its presence on corpse aiding in post-mortem interval (PMI)…
Oryctes sp. is a key pest of date palms, where larval and adult feeding on different plant parts reduces tree vigor and yield. Although insects are recognized as potential vectors of plant…