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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Athens, Georgia » U.S. National Poultry Research Center » Quality and Safety Assessment Research Unit » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #276747
Title: Cost analysis of poultry feed formulated with fly larvae

Author
item Holser, Ronald
item Samuel, Dora

Submitted to: Poultry Science Association
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/2/2012
Publication Date: 7/9/2012
Citation: Holser, R.A., Samuel, D.D. 2012. Cost analysis of poultry feed formulated with fly larvae [abstract]. Poultry Science Association. 2012 CDROM.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Fly larvae were investigated as an alternative protein source for use in poultry feeds. Larvae contain approximately 55 wt% protein (db) and 14 wt% lipids (db). The composition of the larval protein and lipid fractions display favorable amino acid and fatty acid profiles, respectively. The larvae also contain numerous trace elements and vitamins. An economic analysis was performed to examine the cost benefit of replacing soy meal with fly larvae in a starter feed ration. The results indicate a savings of 8.5% – 11.4% per kg feed could be obtained. This analysis assumed that larvae were available on-site as a by-product of a litter treatment system. The other benefits of the litter treatment system were not considered in the analysis. These results demonstrated the economic advantage of insect larvae as a replacement for commodity feed ingredients such as soy meal. This approach supports sustainable agricultural practices.