Effect of Gradually Increasing Levels of Full-Fat Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae Meal on Layer Performance

Nouri Brah, Lawali Amadou, Felix Zounon and Abasse Tougiani

Background and Objective: Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal (BSFLM) has emerged as a promising alternative protein source in poultry nutrition. However, limited research has assessed the impact of gradually increasing full-fat BSFLM on laying hen performance and egg quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of graded levels of full-fat BSFLM on the productive performance and egg quality characteristics of ISA brown laying hens. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 ISA brown laying hens were randomly assigned to 25 groups, with 8 hens per group. Five diets were formulated containing 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12% full-fat BSFLM (designated as BSFLM0, BSFLM3, BSFLM6, BSFLM9 and BSFLM12). Each diet was replicated five times. Birds were reared for two months under identical conditions. Parameters measured included feed intake, laying rate, feed conversion ratio, egg weight, albumen height, Haugh unit and egg yolk color. Data were analyzed using R software (v4.3.3) with ANOVA at a 5% significance level. Results: Increasing levels of BSFLM had a significant linear and quadratic effect (p<0.05) on feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Feed intake declined as BSFLM increased, while feed conversion ratio improved. No significant differences (p>0.05) were observed for laying rate, egg weight, albumen height, Haugh unit, or yolk color across treatments. Conclusion: Gradual inclusion of up to 12% full-fat BSFLM in layer diets improved feed efficiency without compromising laying rate or egg quality. However, higher BSFLM levels slightly reduced feed intake. Further research is warranted to evaluate higher inclusion levels and long-term effects on productivity and egg characteristics.

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