Meeting Livestock Protein and Amino Acids Needs With Edible Insects: A Critical Review

The increasing demand for animal‐based protein has led to biodiversity loss, deforestation, pollution, and extensive land use, mainly due to the rising production of soybean meal and fish meal used to feed livestock. Some edible insects, such as the black soldier fly, mealworm, and cricket, have emerged as a new sustainable source of protein. This review highlights that these edible insects can replace a significant portion of soybean meal and fish meal in monogastric animals (pigs and chickens) and aquaculture (fish and crustaceans). Their protein content, amino acid profile, and digestibility often meet the nutritional requirements of these animals. However, some indispensable amino acids require special attention. Overall, edible insect meals can be compared to those made from soybeans and fish. They can partially or fully replace these traditional protein sources in livestock farming.