Enriched cockroaches and worms to boost feed bioavailability
A group of researchers from the Tomsk State University, Russia, has claimed that it has developed a promising technology for improving the biological availability of feed nutrients by including them in feed as a biomass of invertebrates.
Proposed feeding of invertebrates with nutrients
The scientists propose feeding invertebrates, including the marbled cockroach, the house cricket, the giant Achatina, and the Californian worm, with several vitamins, minerals, and valuable nutrients. After processing, the obtained enriched biomass of invertebrates has shown signs of higher biological availability, meaning that nutrients were digested better than when consumed in the original form.
Species variability in nutrient accumulation
During the studies, different species showed different potential to accumulate valuable nutrients.
“The results of the analysis showed that the change in mineral composition progresses differently. It is most clearly expressed in Achatina and worms. In cockroaches and crickets, only some elements demonstrate significant growth,” commented Anastasia Simakova, one of the authors of the study.
Different enrichment strategies tested
Several different strategies have been tried during the trials. Some invertebrates were fed with only one nutrient, which was described as the method of partial enrichment, while others had a complex of different nutrients.
“Interestingly, both with partial and complex enrichment, it was possible to stably increase the level of B vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins, and vitamin C. Moreover, cockroaches accumulate them faster than anyone else,” she added.
Formula for optimal enrichment of invertebrates
In the end, the scientists believe they managed to develop a formula for the optimal enrichment of invertebrates to gain the best biomass.
Potential impact on the feed industry
While additional trials are necessary, the researchers are optimistic about the potential impact of their work. They believe the new product could be in demand in some segments of the feed industry, particularly in feeding young poultry.
“Biomass saturated with useful elements will be in demand in the livestock industry, as it is capable of improving the metabolism of farm animals during difficult periods of growth and maintenance,” the scientists claimed.
Challenges in feeding young animals
“For example, young animals of artificially created broiler breeds are not able to absorb vitamins and minerals in an inactive form at an early age since the liver and enzymatic system are underdeveloped at this period,” the researchers explained.
Improving animal health through enriched biomass
The scientists are confident in the potential of their research to improve animal health. By consuming feed with nutrient-rich invertebrate biomass, animals will not only receive the necessary substances in an accessible form but also get a significant share of animal protein, which is essential for growth. Vitamins and minerals found in the biomass of invertebrates in an active form will also provide increased immunity of animals and a balance of necessary macro- and microelements.
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