Beyond the protein concept: health aspects of using edible insects on animals

There is an increasing interest in the use of insects animal feed since they contain high proteins levels, lipids, vitamins and minerals. In particular, insect-derived are seen as one potential solution to face protein shortage able fully substitute soybean meal or fishmeal aquaculture livestock feeds. However, beside their interesting nutritional composition, also rich bioactive compounds such chitin, antimicrobial peptides specific fatty acids with immunostimulating, and/or anti-inflammatory properties sustain health, increase resistance diseases. Further studies will have investigate whether share similarities bacterial parasitical pathogens may act immunostimulants. These recent findings launch beyond concept into healthy This review presents effects on fish crustaceans, poultry, pigs rabbits immune system, gut microbiota