Black Soldier Fly for Backyard Chickens: Nutritional Benefits and Feed Dosage
One of the biggest challenges in poultry farming is the high cost of feed, which accounts for up to 70% of total production expenses. This pushes farmers to explore affordable yet nutrient-rich alternatives, one of which is the use of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) for backyard chickens
Read more about: Black Soldier Fly Larvae for Bearded Dragons
Why Use Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) for Chicken Feed?
Source: University of Georgia ExtensionThere is no single "perfect feed" for all chickens. Nutritional needs vary depending on the type, age, and production purpose (meat, eggs, breeding). However, all chickens need four core nutrients:
1. Energy
Energy comes from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. For example, broiler chickens require over 3,000 kcal/kg of feed, often sourced from corn or soybean oil.
2. Protein (Key for Growth & Production)
Protein is crucial for building muscle, feathers, blood, and eggs. While fish meal and soybean meal are common sources, black soldier fly meal for poultry is gaining traction as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative.
Nutritional Profile of Black Soldier Fly Larvae
According to a study by the University of Massachusetts Amherst, BSFL contains:
42.1% crude protein
34.8% ether extract (fat)
14.6% ash
7.9% moisture
7.0% crude fiber
5.0% calcium
1.5% phosphorus
1.4% nitrogen-free extract (NFE)
Proven Benefits of Using BSFL in Poultry Feed
1. Supports Liver Health
Chitin in BSFL reduces GGT levels in the blood, promoting liver function.
2. Boosts Immunity
Live BSFL consumption has been shown to increase the size of the bursa of Fabricius and spleen, enhancing immune function.
3. Improves Growth Rate
With reduced immune energy demand, more nutrients are used for growth, leading to faster and healthier weight gain.
4. Can Replace Soybean Oil
According to MDPI research, BSFL fat supports similar growth results to soybean oil in broiler diets, making it a viable alternative without negative effects.
How to Use Black Soldier Fly Meal in Chickens Feed
Because BSFL contains 40–45% protein, it exceeds the average chicken requirement (16–22%). Therefore, it should be processed into black soldier fly meal and combined with other ingredients to balance the final feed formula.
Suggested Feed Mix Example:
10–20% BSFL meal
Corn, bran, vitamin premix, and other ingredients
Adjust according to age and chicken type
Other Essential Nutrients for Chickens
Vitamins
Aid in metabolism and reproduction. Key vitamins: A, D, E, K, and B-complex.
Minerals
Support bone formation, electrolyte balance, and enzyme function. Examples: Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, selenium, etc.
Water
Often overlooked, yet vital. Chickens drink twice as much as they eat, and water is critical for digestion, body temperature regulation, and feed intake.
Final Thoughts on Black Soldier Fly for Backyard Chickens
With its high protein content, cost efficiency, and environmental sustainability, black soldier fly for backyard chickens is not just a trend, it’s the future. Understanding your flock’s nutritional needs helps you formulate the ideal diet, leading to better health, productivity, and profit.