Dogs and Cats

10 Benefits of Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) for Dogs and Cats:

1. High-Quality Protein Source: BSFL are an excellent source of protein, containing all essential amino acids required for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall health maintenance in both dogs and cats. (Bosch, G., Zhang, S., Oonincx, D. G., & Hendriks, W. H. (2014). Protein quality of insects as potential ingredients for dog and cat foods. Journal of Nutritional Science, 3, e29.)   
2. Rich in Essential Fatty Acids: BSFL offer a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, promoting healthy skin and coat, reducing shedding, and alleviating skin irritations. (Spranghers, T., Ottoboni, M., Klootwijk, C., & Ovyn, A. (2017). Nutritional composition of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) prepupae reared on different organic waste substrates. Journal of Insects as Food and Feed, 3(3), 257-264.)   
3. Improved Digestion: Chitin in BSFL acts as a prebiotic fiber, fostering the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, leading to improved digestion and nutrient absorption in both dogs and cats. In dogs, it can also lead to firmer stools. (McCue, M. E., Shetty, K., & Anderson, R. C. (2013). Chitin and chitosan as feed additives for horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 33(1), 52-59.)
4. Boosted Immune System: BSFL contain antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and lauric acid, which have immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting a robust immune system in both dogs and cats. (Hwangbo, J., Hong, E. C., Jang, A., Kang, H. K., Oh, J. S., Kim, B. W., & Park, B. S. (2009). Utilization of house fly-maggots, a feed supplement in the production of broiler chickens. Journal of Environmental Biology, 30(5), 685-690.)   
5. Strong Bones and Joints: BSFL are rich in calcium and phosphorus, essential minerals for strong bones, healthy joints, and overall skeletal health in both dogs and cats. (Newton, G. L., Sheppard, C., Watson, D. W., Burtle, G. J., Dove, C. R., Tomberlin, J. K., & Sealey, W. M. (2008). Using the black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens, as a value-added tool for the management of swine manure. Report for the National Pork Board.)
6. Natural Energy Source: BSFL are a concentrated source of energy, providing dogs and cats with sustained energy for their daily activities. (St-Hilaire, S., Cranfill, K., McGuire, M. A., Mosley, E. E., Tomberlin, J. K., Newton, L., … & Sealey, W. (2007). Fish offal recycling by the black soldier fly produces a foodstuff high in omega-3 fatty acids. Journal of the World Aquaculture Society, 38(2), 309-313.)   
7. Weight Management: The high protein and moderate fat content of BSFL can help dogs and cats maintain a healthy weight, promoting lean muscle mass and reducing the risk of obesity. (Bosch, G., Zhang, S., Oonincx, D. G., & Hendriks, W. H. (2014). Protein quality of insects as potential ingredients for dog and cat foods. Journal of Nutritional Science, 3, e29.)   
8. Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids in BSFL can contribute to heart health by reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular function in both dogs and cats. (Spranghers, T., Ottoboni, M., Klootwijk, C., & Ovyn, A. (2017). Nutritional composition of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) prepupae reared on different organic waste substrates. Journal of Insects as Food and Feed, 3(3), 257-264.)   
9. Palatable and Novel: Many dogs and cats enjoy the crunchy texture and unique flavor of dried BSFL, making them a great addition to their diet and a healthy alternative to traditional treats. (Bosch, G., Zhang, S., Oonincx, D. G., & Hendriks, W. H. (2014). Protein quality of insects as potential ingredients for dog and cat foods. Journal of Nutritional Science, 3, e29.)   

1. Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly: BSFL production is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional protein sources, requiring less land, water, and feed resources, and producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions. (Oonincx, D. G. A. B., van Itterbeeck, J., Heetkamp, M. J. W., van den Brand, H., van Loon, J. J. A., & van Huis, A. (2010). An exploration on greenhouse gas and ammonia production by insect species suitable for animal or human consumption. PLoS ONE, 5(12), e14445.)