Biochemical and Immune Modulation in Mice Fed Defatted Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens L.) Larvae Meal

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL; Hermetia illucens L.) have gained attention as a sustainable, high-protein natural product with potential applications in animal feed. Defatted BSFL meal, a byproduct of oil extraction, offers enhanced nutritional profiles while minimizing excess dietary fat. Despite its growing use, its effects on blood biochemistry, hematology, and tissue morphology in mammals remain underexplored. Addressing this gap, this study evaluated the impact of defatted BSFL meal supplementation (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) on growth, hematological, biochemical, and antioxidant parameters, and histology in mice over 30 days. Mice fed up to 15% BSFL supplementation showed no significant differences in red blood cell counts, hemoglobin, liver enzymes (Alanine Transaminase and Aspartate Transaminase), antioxidant enzymes (Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase), or Malondialdehyde content compared to controls. However, at 20% supplementation, white blood cell counts significantly increased (14.00×10³/µL vs. 8.95×10³/µL in control), suggesting mild immunostimulation. Histological evaluation revealed slight hepatic vacuolation and villus erosion at 20% BSFL, while lower BSFL levels maintained normal tissue architecture. Ventricular wall thickness and villus height were preserved at 5–15% BSFL supplementation but declined slightly at 20%. In conclusion, moderate inclusion of defatted BSFL meal supported stable physiological and biochemical parameters without inducing toxicity. These findings highlight the feasibility of utilizing defatted BSFL meal as an environmentally friendly, functional protein source in animal feed, contributing to sustainable nutrition and offering potential applications for both livestock and human health.