Heavy metals transport patterns and risk evaluation in the pig manure- black soldier fly-tilapia food chain.

Black soldier fly (BSF) individuals can consume animal excrement and transform it into high-protein food that can be used for animals. This study investigated the changes in the levels of heavy metals (HMs) in BSF individuals and their growth related to ingesting pig manure. According to the trial findings, BSFs fed pig manure had the highest protein concentration of 21.98% and were the least expensive, and its HMs within an acceptable range. Tilapia grew the best when its feed contained half of BSF. Its single-tailed fish weight gain rate was 73.12%, and its survival rate was 100%. The total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) values of tilapia fed with various concentrations of BSF were 0.098–0.181, which were all <1. This indicated that there were no potential hazards posed to humans or the environment. This study offers fundamental information regarding the safety of BSF assessment as well as scientific backing for the widespread utilization of BSF, especially in the pig manure–BSF–tilapia food chain. [Display omitted] • Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae fed by pig manure had high protein content of 21.98%. • When fed with 50% BSF and 50% fish food, tilapia had weight gain rate of 73.12%. • The reduction of heavy metals ranged from 68.2% to 100% in pig manure-BSF-tilapia. • Neither black soldier fly nor tilapia was harmful to humans and environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]