Insect feed: alternative in animal nutrition

If you have one pet in your home, you surely worry about their correct nutrition. In the current market there are various types of feed created from all types of foods. From vegetables to meat foods. But if there is one thing that is booming today and it is insect feed.

At first glance it may sound strange and very particular. However, the truth is that it is a type of food for your pets which will definitely be beneficial. Therefore, today we will talk to you about this alternative in animal feed so that you can learn more about it and consider the idea of feeding your pets with this type of feed.

What is insect feed?

As its name indicates, it is a feed whose main ingredient are insects. This does not mean that it is the only component used. Not at all, in addition to insects, other foods are also used, especially vegetables, to give it flavor.

The idea of using insects for the manufacture of animal food is created thanks to the fact that it is an option with a high protein content. Which, without a doubt, is very beneficial for our pets. In addition, it is an environmentally friendly option.

How is insect-based feed made?

To create this type of feed, insects in their larvae or worm phase. They are subjected to a special heat treatment and then crushed. In this way, we obtain a worm meal which, as strange as it may seem, is packed with nutrients and proteins.

This is used as a base in the manufacture of insect feed. It is mixed with other types of foods such as carrots or potatoes to increase its nutrients and improve its flavor.

This insect meal is mixed with other foods and then processed. It is with this last step that you finally obtain insect feed for pets.

Is it recommended to feed dogs based on insect food?

According to various scientific studies, it has been proven that feeding insects is really beneficial for our pets. Important organizations such as the United Nations Food Organization have confirmed that, thanks to the amount of nutrients and proteins they contain, their consumption is recommended.

Additionally, another plus point is that worms are highly digestible. Some studies even show that they are more digestible than some meat foods. Thanks to this, it will be much easier for our pets to complete their digestion process to obtain the benefits.

You won't have to worry about whether or not your dog will like to eat insects. Since the final flavor of the product is very similar to other feed on the market. With the difference that, by consuming insect feed, your body will be obtaining all this type of nutrients:

• High protein content.
• Large amount of fiber.
• High level of fatty acids.
• Micronutrients such as iron, copper, phosphorus, zinc, etc.

Advantages of insect feed

Now more than ever you will be interested in starting to feed your pets with this type of insect food. If so, you should also know the advantages specifics that you can obtain when purchasing it. Both for your pets and for the environment.

Advantages for pet nutrition

First of all, we will talk about the advantages for pet nutrition. We have already told you about the high level of proteins and nutrients that these feeds have. However, you should also know the specific benefits that its consumption will generate for your pets.

A hypoallergenic diet

By using insects as a base for this type of feed, the chances of our pets developing an intolerance towards it are reduced. Thanks to this, this is a pet food that is considered as hypoallergenic. So you won't have to worry about whether or not your pet is allergic to the components of the feed.

Feed low in harmful fats

On the other hand, another of the great benefits of this type of feed is the fact that it is much lower in harmful fats. That is, it has very low cholesterol levels. In addition, the fats it contains are polyunsaturated. Therefore, it is an extremely healthy food for your pets.

Chemical-free food

Finally, we must also highlight as beneficial the fact that is a feed free of chemicals. During its manufacturing, the use of any type of product of this type is not used. Therefore, it will only provide benefits to your pet. In this way it will be able to grow and develop in a healthy and strong way.

Advantages for the environment

By starting to feed your pets insect food, you will be helping the environment. This is because with this type of feed other animals do not have to die to obtain their meat. Therefore, the benefits for the environment are:

Reduction of greenhouse gases

It is estimated that 20% of beef and fish production is destined for the creation of pet food. This is something that increases significantly the production of greenhouse gases.

On the other hand, if you just use insects, this is something that will not happen. Therefore, the more insect feed is consumed, the lower the environmental impact generated.

Saving water

During the manufacturing process of meat-based pet food, enormous amounts of water are used. Calculations estimate that at least 5,000 to 10,000 liters for each kilo of feed. This is something that does not happen with insect feed. So by buying them you will also be reducing water consumption in the world.

 

If you are interested in insect breeding you can contact Proteinsecta, or find the manuals and consultancies to start creating your own farm.