Edible insects as an alternative to conventional ingredients in livestock feeds: a review

Abstract The global livestock industry faces increasing challenges due to the increasing cost and scarcity of conventional feed ingredients, coupled with their competition with human food sources. This review explores the potential of edible insects as sustainable alternatives to traditional feed components in livestock nutrition. Edible insects provide high-quality protein, essential amino acids, lipids, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as chitin and antimicrobial peptides. Their inclusion in livestock diets has been shown to improve growth performance, feed conversion efficiency, immune response, and gut health, while reducing methane emissions and promoting animal welfare through natural foraging behaviours. Utilising edible insects effectively aligns with the circular economy principles and reduces the environmental impacts linked to feed production. However, challenges remain regarding the variability, digestibility, and potential contamination with heavy metals or pathogens. Advances in processing technologies, safety standards, and regulatory harmonisation are therefore essential to enable wider adoption. In general, the integration of edible insects into livestock feeding systems presents a viable strategy to enhance food security, reduce environmental impact, and promote sustainable animal production.