Organic waste, such as by-products from beer and wine production, no longer needs to end up in landfills or undergo energy-intensive disposal processes. The larvae of the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) can efficiently convert these by-products into valuable biomass rich in proteins and lipids, thereby closing nutrient cycles and supporting the principles of the circular economy.
The processing of larvae begins with a three-minute blanching step at 100 °C to ensure hygienic safety, followed by drying at 60 °C for 24 hours and subsequent cold pressing. This process produces insect meal and fresh insect oil. The resulting meal is an excellent source of nutrients for fish, poultry, and pigs, where it has been shown to support growth and enhance immune function. The extracted oil contains valuable fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as lauric acid with antimicrobial properties, making it a promising ingredient for regenerative and moisturising cosmetic products.
The use of insect-derived products reduces dependence on traditional protein sources such as soybean meal and fish meal, while contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Researchers from the Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters at the University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice (FFPW USB) demonstrate how applied research can be successfully integrated with strict legislative requirements and ecological innovations to support a more sustainable future.
The full article is available in the journal Zemědělec (Issue 34/2026, Animal Production section, p. 55).
This research project was supported through an internal funding call from ČSOB, a.s., in cooperation with the Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice.
