Work

Unravelling the Influence of Extraction Techniques on Protein Yield and Nutritional Value in Lesser Mealworm Larvae

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: In the present work, chemical and enzymatic assisted techniques were compared for protein extraction from lesser mealworm larvae (LM, Alphitobius diaperinus), recently approved as a novel food in the European Union. All extracts showed appreciable nutritional quality, with quantities of essential amino acids above the reference standard. Conventional alkali extraction allowed the isolation of only 73% of the protein, preserving the amino acid composition but potentially causing denaturation or racemisation. The “stepwise” method, following the Osborne fractionation, improved protein recovery to 91% by isolating four fractions with different solubility properties. Additionally, enzymatic hydrolysis using Bacillus licheniformis proteases was also tested, and it provided hydrolysates with an average degree of hydrolysis of 14%, making them a potential hypoallergenic solution. Overall, these findings indicate the ability to tailor the composition of LM protein to meet specific needs, offering promising prospects for the use of insect protein ingredients in various applications.

Source: Molecules

DOI: 10.3390/molecules29174220

Authors: Andrea Fuso, Giulia Leni, Augusta Caligiani

Institutions: University of Parma, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

Language: English

Topic: Insect Utilization and Effects

Subfield: Insect Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,069