Summary
This experimental study examined how dietary composition influences microbial safety during bioconversion of agro-industrial residues by Hermetia illucens larvae, a sustainable pathway for producing animal feed and soil amendments. The research quantified antibiotic resistance genes and pathogenic bacteria across four legume- and cereal-based diet formulations, finding that legume-based substrates (particularly peas and chickpea) reduced AR gene prevalence and eliminated Salmonella, whereas wheat-based diets increased certain AR gene levels. The findings suggest that substrate selection can enhance biosafety in insect bioconversion systems intended for circular agriculture.
Regional applicability
The study employs laboratory methodology on residues with global relevance, but does not appear to be UK-based. Findings are potentially transferable to United Kingdom agricultural systems that generate pea, chickpea, wheat, and onion residues, and could inform policy on safe use of insect-derived products in UK animal feed and soil amendment contexts, though local pathogen and AR gene profiles should be validated.
Key measures
Viable counts of Enterococcus spp., presence/absence of Salmonella spp., and quantification of 13 antibiotic resistance genes (tetracyclines, macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B, β-lactams, vancomycin, aminoglycosides) via qPCR in substrates, diets, larvae, and frass
Outcomes reported
The study quantified antibiotic resistance genes, Enterococcus and Salmonella in larvae and frass across four diet formulations based on agro-industrial residues. Results demonstrated that diet composition directly modulates microbial safety profiles and AR gene profiles during bioconversion.
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