Feeding Early-Weaned Piglets with Tenebrio molitor Larvae: Effects on Development and Intestinal Health
Projects with DARPA grant – Grups Operatius 2023
Project name: “ALTEMO: Feeding Early-Weaned Piglets with Tenebrio molitor Larvae: Effects on Development and Intestinal Health”
Participants: NOEL ALIMENTARIA SAU (leader), SELECCIÓN BATALLÉ SA (beneficiary), FRISELVA SA (beneficiary), INNOVACC (coordinator), IRTA (OPI), Iberinsect (contracted).
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Budget: 82.986,87 €
Grant: 67.238,97 €
Project summary:
Animal plasma is a by-product fromof slaughterhouses, and is traditionally derived from pig blood or a mixture withof pig and bovine plasmablood. Currently, in Europe, plasma for animal feed must come exclusively from non-ruminants and be produced in EU-authorized facilities. This protein source, rich in albumins and globulins, is highly digestible and has a high biological value, making it particularly beneficial for feeding newly weaned piglets. Plasma helps to improve intestinal health and productivity due to its protective properties, likely attributed to its active immunoglobulin content.
The dDietary transition in piglets is a critical process in piglets marked by stress and the challenges in adaptingto adaptate to solid foodfeed. During this stage, incorporating small amounts of plasma into feeds (2-6%) reduces post-weaning complications, enhancing feed intake and digestion and reducing mortality rates. However, the high cost of plasma limits its widespread use.
To address this, the ALTEMO project proposes more sustainable and cost-effective alternatives, such as incorporating the incorporation of insect proteins into prestarter feeds as an innovative solution. The main objective is to provide evidence on how replacing plasma protein with Tenebrio molitor protein positively impacts piglet development and intestinal health while improving the system’s sustainability. This proteinalternative presents a viable option to reduce the dependence on traditional sources such as plasma and soy, ensuring a nutritious and high-quality product.
Furthermore, the project aims to fulfilmeet the European Union's social demands for a more sustainable food systems and animal welfare. Implementing this innovation innovative solution would reduce food waste, improve sustainabilityoffer more sustainable solutions, and help combat antimicrobial resistance, aligning with the requirements of intensive livestock production systems.
Implementation of the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027 co-financed by:
