Evaluation of carotenoid bioaccumulation in black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), and its influence on nutritional characteristics and antioxidant capacity.

Abstract

Fruit and vegetable by-products, including waste materials, are abundant in bioactive compounds such as carotenoids. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), scientifically named Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), can be employed in biotransformation processes to create high-value biomass while mitigating the environmental burden of these agricultural wastes. This study evaluated the effects of carotenoid-rich plant-based substrates on the growth performance, chemical composition, carotenoid accumulation, and antioxidant properties of BSFL. Results showed that BSFL could bioaccumulate carotenoids from the tested substrates, with concentrations ranging from 0.61 to 16.62 mg/100 g. Most carotenoids were sequestered in the intestinal tissues of BSFL, while a small proportion was detected in the epidermis and fat body. Furthermore, BSFL meal and oil exhibited favorable antioxidant capacities, which were significantly positively correlated with total carotenoid content. Our findings demonstrate that BSFL constitutes an efficient biological system for converting low-value agri-food waste into nutritionally enhanced animal feed or food ingredients. This bioconversion strategy offers a sustainable and innovative approach to simultaneous waste management and the production of value-added products for the feed and food industries.