The soy crop that’s currently being grown in South Africa is not suitable for the country's weather conditions, as it heavily relies on irrigation. In case of drought, South Africa produces only around 765,560 tons of Soy per year and has to import an additional 560,650 tons during the same period. However, Black Soldier Fly Larvae can be used as a highly efficient and sustainable substitute that can maintain a consistent supply of animal protein, regardless of weather conditions, while requiring only a fraction of the land and water usage.
Black soldier fly larvae have been found to be a great source of nutrition and can replace Soy and Fishmeal in a 1:1 ratio. This species was chosen for breeding as it has a high crude protein content of 35%-50% (depending on the feed content) and crude fat content of 15%-23% (also depending on the feed content). Additionally, the larvae contain a rich amino acid and nutrient content, which can lower the need for other supplements, such as lysine, alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, isoleucine, and leucine.
Black Soldier Fly Larvae are a great source of nutrition for fish, poultry, ruminants and horses. They provide a well-rounded and nutritionally complex feed that is similar to soy in meat production and also increases egg laying rates in poultry production. Producing BSF helps to reduce waste and supports the local production of animal protein.