Work

Can environmental impact of livestock feed be reduced by using waste-fed housefly larvae?

Year: 2014

Type: book

Abstract: The livestock sector is searching for alternative protein sources, because of the expected increase in demand for animal products. Insects are such a protein source. Use of insects may reduce environmental impact as they have potential to turn organic waste into high quality insect-based feed products. The aim of this study was to explore the environmental impact of using common housefly larvae fed on organic waste as livestock feed. Data were obtained from a testing site, that is designing a rearing place of 20 tons of larvae meal per day. Results showed that larvae meal has a GWP of 770 g CO2-eq, energy use of 9,329 MJ and land use of 32 m per kg dry matter meal. Compared with soybean meal, larvae meal results in lower land use and a higher GWP due to its high energy use. To conclude, larvae production has potential to make livestock diets more sustainable.

Source: Socio-Environmental Systems Modeling

Authors: H.H.E. van Zanten, D.G.A.B. Oonincx, H. Mollenhorst, P. Bikker, B.G. Meerburg, I.J.M. de Boer

Institution: Wageningen University & Research

Language: English

Topic: Insect Utilization and Effects

Subfield: Insect Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Zero hunger, Climate action

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W2237979973

FWCI: 2.198

Cites: 16

Cited by: 14

Related to: 10