Purging black solider fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) compromises their nutritive value as a feedstuff.

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) is rapidly becoming a new sustainable ingredient. Currently, there is no information on purging BSFL and consequently their nutritional profile. In the first part of this study, the BSFL urea/ammonia content along with proximate, fatty acid and amino acids were examined when food was withdrawn at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 24 h. After 3 h, urea content linearly increased until 24 h, while ammonia also increased linearly, but then decreased by 24 h. Total amino acids and total fatty acids gradually decreased and increased over time, respectively. At 3 and 6 h, butyric and acetic acid significantly decreased, respectively. In a follow-up separate study, providing coconut fibers mitigated the ammonia/urea increases within 48 h. Results indicate that the nutritional profile of BSFL reduces over time and thus should be processed immediately. Further research should explore the possibility of nutrient loading prior to harvest and more effective ways for purging BSFL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]