Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) for a Resilient Circular Bioeconomy: Trade-Offs between Industrial-Scale and Arid-Zone Production Models

This review synthesizes recent evidence on the use of the yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) as a lever for circular bioeconomy strategies. We contrast industrial-scale production (standardized, capital-intensive, optimized for throughput) with arid-zone models (resource-constrained, climate-stressed, opportunity for decentralized valorization of local by-products). We examine protein and lipid yields, environmental and techno-economic metrics, supply-chain risks, regulatory bottlenecks, and quality aspects of feeds and foods. We highlight trade-offs between scale, resilience, and local integration, and identify practical priorities: stable substrates, harmonized standards, and risk-managed logistics. The review closes with a roadmap for scaling robust, region-adapted value chains.