Black soldier fly larvae as an alternative feed source and agro-waste disposal route – A life cycle perspective

Life cycle assessment (LCA) was applied to evaluate black soldier fly production using different diets, including typical Belgian agro-residues (Brussels sprout stems, endive roots and solid fraction pig manure). The LCA compared insect-based feed with soybean meal fishmeal, composting through insects versus conventional treatments. Underlying data were derived feeding experiments. To determine the sensitivity of results, we tested effect alternative energy sources dietary components. Non-residue insect use contributed greatly overall environmental impacts. Insect protein had greater impacts than from or fishmeal due high consumption and, in some cases, agro-product demands. These should be areas focus make European more sustainable. In case Brussels stems roots, treatments outperformed by insects. Between industrial manure composting, results varied source impact category.