Findings from China Agricultural University Provides New Data on Insects as Food and Feed [Chemical Composition and Amino Acids of Locusta Migratoria (Orthoptera Acrididae) Fed Wheat Seedlings (Triticum Aestivum) or Rape Leaves (Brassica Napus)].

A study conducted by China Agricultural University in Beijing, China, explores the nutritional composition of locusts when fed different diets. The researchers found that the diet of locusts, specifically wheat seedlings and rape leaves, significantly affected their chemical composition and amino acid content. Locusts fed wheat seedlings had higher body weight, crude protein, and triglyceride levels compared to those fed rape leaves. Additionally, locusts fed rape leaves had enhanced amino acid composition, indicating improved protein quality. The study suggests that manipulating the diet of insects can alter their nutritional composition, making them potential alternative protein sources for humans and animals. [Extracted from the article]