Amino acid analysis and physiological properties of protein concentrate made from Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens)

Food waste continues to increase as the population increases. The buildup of food waste can cause environmental pollution and imbalance in the food system. With the potential for various problems that can be caused by food waste and animal husbandry activities, the use of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae is expected in helping organic waste decomposition, as well as becoming an alternative protein source. Therefore, this study aims to study the amino acid profile and the quality of protein concentrate produced from BSF. The amino acid profile of BSF larvae, the protein content, foaming capacity and stability, and emulsion capacity and stability of protein concentrate made from BSF larvae were determined. Based on the results of this study, it was found that BSF larvae contains complete essential amino acid. Furthermore, it was also found that the protein concentrate made from BSF larvae was 79.94 ± 0.49%. BSF larvae protein concentrate has a good ability in forming and maintaining foam, but has a poor ability in forming and maintaining emulsion if compared to bovine serum albumin.