Manufacturing Methods and Standards for Drone Pupae, a Novel Food Ingredient from South Korea

Drone pupae of honeybee (Apis mellifera) have been used as food in many countries to boost the immune system. In this study, we evaluated the nutritional characteristics of drone pupae, which have been registered as a novel food in South Korea. In order to use drone pupae as a food ingredient, regulations regarding the manufacturing process, heavy metals, and acid value must be complied with. We found that the optimal period for pupae collection was 17 to 22 days after spawning. Carbohydrate, crude fat, and protein content in proximate composition of drone pupae were measured as 15.89±0.11%, 26.19±0.05%, and 51.78±0.08%, respectively. Overall 18 amino acids, including 11 essential amino acids, were identified as components, with glutamic acid in the highest amount (38.28±6.2 g/kg). Drone pupae contained 13 minerals and were rich in potassium (1438.74±1.12 mg/100 g) and phosphorus (714.00±2.44 mg/100 g). Furthermore, they comprised four water-soluble vitamins (B1, B2, B9, and C) and one fat-soluble vitamin(D). Drone pupae collected for the current study did not exhibit bacterial or fungal contamination. These results suggest that honeybee drone pupae are a rich source of protein and other essential nutrients and could be used as a food ingredient. Furthermore, drone pupae could be safe to be consumed as a food supplement.