Insects are an alternative and sustainable feed source for poultry and aquaculture animals in the future. Insect protein is gaining recognition for its promising benefits in improving gut health and nutrient digestibility in livestock. Animals, like humans, need high-quality protein for optimal growth and development. Insects provide a rich source of protein, making them an excellent nutritional supplement. Insects are highly nutritious and provide a wide range of essential nutrients that fish and chickens need for growth and general health. They are a rich source of protein, which is important for muscle development, tissue repair, and egg production. Insects also contain essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals necessary for optimal growth, immune function, and reproduction.
A natural part of the diet
Insects are a natural part of the diet of many fish species, including both wild and domesticated fish species. Fish naturally tend to consume insects because they are a valuable food source in their natural habitats. By adding insects to fish feed, we provide them with food that matches their natural feeding behavior and nutritional needs. Fish and chickens find insects very tasty, which means they are naturally inclined to consume them. Insects have different tastes and aromas that attract these animals. This palatability factor makes insect-based feeds more attractive to fish and chickens, increasing feed intake and better utilization of nutrients. When it comes to intestinal health, the structure and functionality of the domestic animal and digestive system and the composition of the intestinal microbiota play an important role in the development of the digestive tract and intestinal morphology. A well-developed digestive tract contains an appropriate balance of beneficial and harmful microbes; thus, this balance improves nutrient utilization and promotes the development of the immune system.
Modulating the digestive tract
The intestinal and gastrointestinal microbiota of the animal can be modified by feeding prebiotic or probiotic compounds that affect the animal and humoral immunity, improving nutrient utilization and thus improving growth performance and general health. The presence of dietary fiber, mainly in the form of chitin in the exoskeleton, distinguishes insects from other protein sources. In the gut of domestic animals, chitin is likely to be converted into soluble and more fermentable forms such as chitosan or chitosan, which act as prebiotics. This leads to high digestibility. The digestive systems of domestic animals are well equipped to efficiently break down and utilize insect proteins. This means that animals can easily absorb the nutrients in insect protein, improving nutrient utilization and overall health.
In addition, insect protein has a balanced amino acid profile. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are necessary for various biological processes in animals. Insects contain a wide range of amino acids, which ensures that cattle receive a complete and balanced nutritional profile. It helps support optimal growth, reproduction, and overall well-being. In addition to their nutritional properties, insects promote intestinal health in domestic animals. Insects contain compounds such as chitin and antimicrobial peptides, which have been found to have a positive effect on the gut microbiota. The gut microbiota plays an important role in nutrient absorption and overall immune function. By promoting a healthy microbial population in the gut, insects help optimize gut health in livestock, which improves nutrient absorption and strengthens the immune system.
Reducing the need for antibiotics
Some species have antimicrobial properties, either through compounds in their bodies or through their host organisms, which can help fight harmful bacteria. When insects are added to animal feed, these natural antimicrobial properties can help maintain a healthy gut microbiota and reduce the need for antibiotics. In addition to the benefits specific to livestock, the use of insect protein in animal nutrition is also compatible with the goals of sustainable development. Insect farming requires fewer resources compared to traditional livestock. They have a smaller environmental footprint because they use less water, land, and feed. This reduced resource consumption contributes to a more sustainable agricultural system that addresses issues related to cultivation, water scarcity, and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the addition of insects to eat supports the concept of a circular economy. Insects can be fed on organic waste materials such as food waste or agricultural by-products. This not only reduces waste but also makes it a valuable source of protein. By reusing organic waste through insect farming, we can minimize environmental pollution and create a closed circulatory system.