As pet owners, we are constantly on the lookout for the best possible nutrition for our furry companions. In recent years, the use of alternative protein sources in dog food has been gaining popularity due to the environmental impact of traditional meat-based diets. One such alternative that has been making waves is black soldier fly larvae. But can black soldier fly larvae really be a viable substitute for traditional dog food? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of using black soldier fly larvae as a protein source for dogs.
Your Dog Can Be Allergic:
Some dogs may have allergies to certain types of protein, such as beef, chicken, and nuts… Allergic reactions in your dogs caused by food can appear in many ways, the most common are:
- Itchy skin or rashes: If your dog is constantly scratching, biting, or licking their skin, it may be a sign of an allergic reaction to their food.
- Digestive issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, and flatulence are common symptoms of food allergies in dogs.
- Ear infections: Chronic ear infections can also be a sign of a food allergy.
- Respiratory issues: Wheezing, coughing, and sneezing may indicate an allergic reaction to your dog’s food. Behavioral changes: Food allergies can also cause changes in a dog’s behavior, such as restlessness, anxiety, or depression.
In recent years, the use of alternative protein sources in dog food has been gaining popularity due to dogs allergic to traditional meat-based diets. Anh dog’s food based on black soldier fly larvae are the new option for dog owners if their dogs are allergic to traditional dog food.
BSFL is Safe to Use As Dog Food
Black soldier fly larvae are a novel protein source, which means that dogs are less likely to have an allergic reaction to them. This makes them a good option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. Novel proteins: These are protein sources that are not commonly used in dog food, such as duck, venison, bison, salmon, antarctic krill, insects, and black soldier fly larvae. Using novel proteins can help reduce the risk of a dog developing an allergic reaction to the protein source.
In 2019, Members of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) voted to approve the use of dried black soldier fly larvae (Black Soldier Fly Larva – BSFL) in feeding animals, dogs. According to Sue Hays, chief executive officer of AAFCO, the ingredient was first introduced as a potential dog food ingredient in 2019, since then members of the association have come under scrutiny for the product. black soldier flies to make the above decision. Ms. Sue Hays explained: “The tentative approval of AAFCO for BSF Larva (Black Soldier Fly Larva – BSFL) in adult dog food means that in the near future many public agencies in the US will accept the Black Soldier Fly ingredient in adult dog food and treats for distribution in their respective localities.”
=> Read Full Document here: AAFCO Document – Chapter Six
The Benefits of Black Soldier Fly Larvae as Dog Food
High in Protein:
One of the main advantages benefits of black soldier flies larvae as dog food is their high protein content. BSFL contains up to 50% protein, which is higher than most traditional meat-based diets. Protein is essential for dogs as it helps build and repair muscles, maintains a healthy immune system, and supports overall health.
Breakdown of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Protein:
- Lysine
- Leucine
- L-Leucine
- Valine
- Arginine
- Threonine
- Histidine
- Phenyalanine+tyrosine
- Methionine+cysteine
- …..
=> Read More: How Much Protein Is In A Black Soldier Fly Larvae?
Rich in Nutrients
Black soldier fly larvae are not only high in protein, but they are also a rich source of other essential nutrients. They contain all 10 essential amino acids that dogs need for healthy growth and development, including arginine, which plays a critical role in maintaining good cardiovascular health. Black Soldier Fly Larvae Fats Content – (BSFL Fats Content):
- Lauric Acid
- Myristic Acid
- Pentadecanoic Acid – ISO
- Pentadecanoic Acide – Anteiso
- Palmitic Acid Stearic Acid
- Palmitoleic Acid
- Oleic Acid
- Lenoleic Acid
- …
In addition to amino acids, black soldier fly larvae are also a good source of vitamins and minerals. They are high in calcium, which helps support strong bones and teeth, as well as iron, which is important for healthy red blood cells. Furthermore, black soldier fly larvae are rich in other important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. These vitamins are essential for a range of bodily functions, including energy production and maintaining healthy skin, coat, and eyes.
Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly
Another advantage of using black soldier fly larvae as dog food is their sustainability and eco-friendliness. They can be raised on a variety of organic waste products, such as food scraps and agricultural by-products… and can be raised on a large scale with minimal resources, making them a highly sustainable protein source. Additionally, their production results in less greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional meat-based diets.
For Example, You will cost 10 kg of animal food to produce 1 kg of beef meat As for raising black soldier flies you only need 2-3 kg of rotten food to make 1kg of protein powder from larvae. Black soldier fly larvae farms provide more protein per acre than traditional livestock counterparts, and BSFL requires less fresh water than poultry, pigs, and soya bean farming…
=> Read more:
Development time (from birth or egg-laying to harvest) | Feed requirement (kg) for 1 kg of meat | |
BSF larvae | 15-30 days | 1-2 |
Mealworms | 60-90 days | 2 |
Poultry | 14 weeks | 4.5 |
Beef | < 36 mths | 25 |
Suitable for dogs with food sensitivities:
Because black soldier flies larvae are not commonly used in dog food, they may be a good option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies to more traditional protein sources. Moreover, Many dogs find black soldier fly larvae to be a palatable and tasty addition to their diet, making it easier to incorporate into their meals.
A brand specializing in the production and export of agricultural products in Vietnam. We have a black soldier fly farm in Tay Ninh and a cashew growing area in Binh Phuoc. The main export products of the company are: cashew nuts, cashew nut kernels, black soldier fly, frozen seafood, shrimp, prawns, catfish… from Vietnam.