Comparative study of pre-drying treatment on physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, and volatile compounds of oil extracted from dried Tenebrio molitor larvae

Key Points

• This study compares how various pre-drying treatments affect oil extracted from dried Tenebrio molitor larvae.
• Comparative analysis of freeze drying, microwave drying, and oven drying on oil properties.
• Measurement of physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, and volatile compounds of oil extracted from larvae.
• Statistical evaluation of acid and peroxide values, viscosity, and thermal stability.
• Oil from freeze-dried Tenebrio molitor showed high acid and peroxide values (P < 0.05) and a high content of saturated fatty acids.
• Microwave-dried and oven-dried oils exhibited lower oxidation and higher thermal stability (P < 0.05).
• Oven-dried larvae oil enhanced unsaturated fatty acids and developed a baking aroma similar to vegetable oils.