Exploration reveals silkworm pupae improve blood glucose levels and serve as protein source in aquaculture, suggesting new nutraceutical applications.
For centuries, sericulture has revolved around silk production, with the mulberry silkworm as its core. However, silkworm pupae long considered a by-product are now gaining recognition for their remarkable value beyond silk. Rich in high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and bioactive compounds, silkworm pupae offer significant potential as a sustainable alternative protein source for human consumption and animal feed, particularly in aquaculture. Also, silkworm pupae offer promising benefits for human, acting as natural α- glucosidase inhibitor, helping to lower post-meal blood glucose levels. Their oil, characterized by a favorable unsaturated fatty acid profile and antioxidant properties, is gaining traction in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. Recent research has also uncovered bioactive peptides in pupae with promising health benefits, opening new doors in the nutraceutical and biomedical sectors.
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Naan et al. (2025) studied this question.
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