Improving sustainability of poultry production by feeding insects: state of the art and perspectives

The market for poultry products (egg and meat) is growing worldwide owing also to the absence of cultural or religious obstacles. Dietary protein sources represent the primary production costs.Soybean meal is the most used protein source in the diet formulations for broilers and laying hens. However due to its ever-increasing price, the sustainability of this production chain is becoming critical, in particular in some developing countries. Therefore, alternative feed protein sources, locally available and sustainable are required. The use of insects as an alternative source of protein in animal feeding is becoming globally more appealing, especially for its sustainability. In addition, insects (adult, larval and pupal form) are consumed naturally by wild birds and free-range poultry. The rural poultry farming in the economy and food security of developing countries has been momentous. Studies have shown the feasibility of using insects as an alternative feed source or as complementary feed source for poultry.