Proximate and amino acid analysis of mulberry and non-mulberry silkworm pupae

The proximate and amino acid composition of both deoiled and non deoiled pupae ‘eri' (Samia ricini) and ‘muga' (Antheraea assamensis) and mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori) were analyzed. Investigation revealed that silkworm pupae contained protein (40%-60%), fat (4%-20%), moisture (4%-8%), fibre (3%-6%) and ash (4%-6%). Overall protein content was highest in Antheraea assamensis pupae (63.53%) followed by Samia ricini (56.15%) and Bombyx mori (55.71%). Amongst the two types of pupae, the highest protein content was found in deoiled pupae. Amino acid analysis of silkworm pupae showed 17 amino acids, including all the essential amino acids. The total essential amino acid content is higher in mulberry pupae (50.2%) compared to Muga (46.5%) and ERI pupae (44%). The result of the study concluded that nutritive value of silkworm pupae could be utilized as a supplementary protein source in human and animal nutrition.