Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva): A Novel Poultry Feed Resource

Abstract

Insects are being considered as alternative feed resources for animals, among which the yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor larva) has gained popularity and is being recognized as a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional poultry feeds. Traditional poultry feeds, such as soyabean meal and fish meal, are becoming increasingly unsustainable due to their high environmental impact and competition with human food production. In contrast, yellow mealworms are a renewable and ecologically friendly solution. Yellow mealworms offer high protein content, essential amino acids, and beneficial fatty acids, making them an excellent choice for poultry nutrition. Additionally, mealworms can be reared on organic waste, thereby reducing the ecological footprint of poultry farming. Integrating mealworm production into waste management systems makes it possible to simultaneously address feed security and waste reduction. This article systematically reviews the existing literature on the nutritional composition of yellow mealworms, highlighting their protein content, amino acid profiles, fatty acid composition, and mineral content. It also examines the impact of mealworm-based diets on poultry growth rates, feed conversion ratios, egg production and overall poultry health. The findings suggest that yellow mealworms could play a significant role in the future of sustainable poultry farming, contributing to both poultry welfare and environmental conservation. Furthermore, with the continuous rise in feed costs, yellow mealworms can serve as a cost-effective alternative when produced at the farm level using recycled organic byproducts. Their efficient conversion of organic waste into high-quality protein can substantially lower overall poultry feed expenses.