Hermetia illucens as sustainable source of food and feed

Hermetia illucens, black soldier fly (BSF), demonstrates significant potential as a sustainable protein source for both human consumption and animal feed. Despite cultural resistance, food neophobia, and regulatory challenges, its nutritional value and environmental benefits underscore its importance. While BSF larvae (BSFL) are consumed by indigenous populations in Sabah, Malaysia, broader acceptance relies on strategies such as innovative marketing and processing into less recognizable forms. In cellular agriculture, insect cells offer promising advantages for cultured meat production. Their rapid growth, adaptability to serum-free media, and reduced resource requirements compared to mammalian cells make them a scalable and cost-effective option. These characteristics position BSF cells as a transformative resource for meeting global protein demands. As feed, BSFL replaces fishmeal and soybean meal in aquaculture, poultry, and swine, further emphasizing its versatility. BSF's dual role in food and feed highlights its potential to advance sustainable food systems and mitigate environmental impacts. © 2026 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.