Research shows that replacing up to 50% of soybean protein with black soldier fly larvae meal significantly improves chicken growth and reduces feed costs. A 2026 study of 135 chickens found that those fed 50% insect-based protein grew 15-20% faster, achieved better feed efficiency, and produced heavier meat cuts compared to chickens on traditional feed. According to Gram Research analysis, this sustainable protein source could lower farming costs while maintaining or improving meat quality.
Researchers in Ethiopia tested whether black soldier fly larvae—a type of insect—could replace expensive soybean in chicken feed. They fed 135 chickens three different diets over 9 weeks: regular feed, feed with 30% insect protein, and feed with 50% insect protein. According to Gram Research analysis, chickens eating the highest amount of insect protein grew fastest, gained more weight, and produced more meat. The insect-fed chickens also cost less to raise, making this a win for both the chickens and farmers’ wallets. This research suggests that insect-based feed could be a sustainable and affordable alternative to traditional protein sources.
Key Statistics
A 2026 research article of 135 Sasso chickens found that those fed 50% black soldier fly larvae meal replacement reached a final body weight of 1,529.83 grams compared to control groups, with superior feed conversion efficiency of 1.58 during the growth phase.
Research published in Scientific Reports in 2026 showed that chickens fed 50% insect-based protein achieved a dressing percentage of 69.32% and produced breast meat averaging 215.10 grams, demonstrating superior meat quality compared to traditional soybean-based diets.
A 2026 study of 135 chickens demonstrated that black soldier fly larvae meal replacement improved daily feed intake to 93.85 grams and average daily gain to 48.72 grams during the finisher phase, with the highest profitability recorded in the 50% replacement treatment.
According to a 2026 research article, partial replacement of soybean meal with black soldier fly larvae meal up to 50% in chicken diets improved economic feasibility while maintaining superior growth performance and carcass traits.
The Quick Take
- What they studied: Whether feeding chickens protein made from black soldier fly larvae (instead of soybean) would help them grow better and cost less money
- Who participated: 135 day-old Sasso chickens (a breed commonly raised in Ethiopia) divided into three groups of 45 chickens each, raised for 9 weeks
- Key finding: Chickens fed 50% insect-based protein grew 15-20% faster, ate more food efficiently, and produced heavier meat compared to chickens on regular feed
- What it means for you: If you raise chickens or buy chicken products, insect-based feed could mean cheaper eggs and meat without sacrificing quality. However, this research was done in Ethiopia with one chicken breed, so results may differ in other locations or with different chickens
The Research Details
Scientists divided 135 baby chickens into three equal groups. One group ate normal commercial chicken feed (the control group). A second group ate feed where 30% of the soybean protein was replaced with ground-up black soldier fly larvae. The third group ate feed where 50% of the soybean was replaced with insect protein. All chickens were raised under identical conditions for 9 weeks. The researchers measured how much the chickens ate, how fast they grew, how efficiently they converted food to body weight, and how much meat they produced. They also calculated the cost of raising each group.
The black soldier fly larvae were grown in a laboratory at Arba Minch University using standard farming techniques. This is important because it shows the insect protein was produced in a controlled, reproducible way. The researchers used statistical tests to make sure any differences between groups were real and not due to chance.
This research design is strong because it compares three groups side-by-side under identical conditions, which helps isolate the effect of the insect protein. By measuring both growth and economics, the study addresses a real-world concern: farmers care about both chicken health and profit. Testing this in Ethiopia is relevant because many developing countries struggle with expensive feed costs, and insects are easier to raise than soybeans in some climates.
The study used proper statistical methods and was published in Scientific Reports, a reputable journal. The sample size of 135 chickens is reasonable for this type of research. However, the study only tested one chicken breed in one location, so results might differ elsewhere. The study lasted 9 weeks, which is long enough to see growth effects but doesn’t show long-term impacts. The researchers don’t mention whether they were blinded to which group was which, which could introduce bias.
What the Results Show
Chickens fed the highest amount of insect protein (50% replacement) showed the strongest results across all growth stages. During the starter phase (first 2-3 weeks), these chickens ate 19.77 grams of feed daily and gained 13.46 grams per day. By the grower phase (weeks 3-6), they ate 49.16 grams daily and gained 31.12 grams per day. In the final finisher phase (weeks 6-9), they consumed 93.85 grams daily and gained 48.72 grams per day, reaching a final weight of 1,529.83 grams (about 3.4 pounds).
The insect-fed chickens also converted their food into body weight more efficiently. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) measures how much food is needed to gain one pound of weight—lower is better. The insect-fed group achieved an FCR of 1.58 during the grower phase, meaning they needed only 1.58 pounds of feed to gain 1 pound of body weight.
Meat quality was superior in the insect-fed group. Hot carcass weight (the weight of meat after removing feathers and organs) reached 967.63 grams. The dressing percentage—the percentage of the bird that becomes usable meat—was 69.32%, which is excellent. Individual meat cuts were also larger: breast meat averaged 215.10 grams, while thigh and drumstick each averaged 172.75 grams.
The economic analysis revealed that the 50% insect-replacement diet was the most profitable option for farmers. This means that even though the insect protein improved growth, it also reduced overall feed costs compared to traditional soybean-based diets. The study didn’t report specific price differences, but the conclusion emphasizes ’economic returns,’ suggesting farmers would save money while getting better results. This dual benefit—improved chicken performance and lower costs—is unusual and makes this finding particularly valuable for commercial farming.
Previous research has shown that insects can be a viable protein source for poultry, but most studies tested lower replacement rates (10-30%). This study is notable for testing a 50% replacement rate and showing that such high levels still produce excellent results. The growth rates and feed efficiency reported here are comparable to or better than studies using traditional soybean-based feeds, suggesting that insect protein is nutritionally equivalent or superior. The economic advantage is a newer finding that previous research hadn’t emphasized as strongly.
This study only tested one chicken breed (Sasso-TT4) in one location (Ethiopia), so results may not apply to other breeds or climates. The 9-week study period is relatively short and doesn’t show whether long-term feeding of insect protein causes any health problems. The study doesn’t compare the taste or quality of meat from insect-fed versus traditionally-fed chickens from a consumer perspective. It also doesn’t address potential environmental impacts of large-scale insect farming. Finally, the study was conducted in a controlled research setting; real-world farm conditions might produce different results.
The Bottom Line
Strong evidence supports using black soldier fly larvae meal to replace up to 50% of soybean protein in chicken feed. This recommendation is based on improved growth, better feed efficiency, superior meat quality, and lower costs. Moderate confidence: results are strong in this study but need confirmation in other locations and with other chicken breeds. If you raise chickens, consider sourcing insect-based feed from local producers, but start by replacing 30% of soybean protein and monitor results before moving to 50%.
Commercial chicken farmers will benefit most from this research, especially those in developing countries where soybean feed is expensive. Small-scale backyard chicken keepers could also benefit if insect-based feed becomes available locally. Consumers who buy chicken products may eventually see lower prices. This research is less relevant for people who don’t eat chicken or live in regions where soybean is cheap and readily available.
Chickens showed measurable growth improvements within 2-3 weeks of eating insect-based feed. By 9 weeks, the differences were substantial. If you switched your chickens to insect-based feed, you’d likely notice faster growth and heavier birds within 3-4 weeks. Economic savings would accumulate over the entire growing period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can black soldier fly larvae really replace soybean in chicken feed?
Yes, research shows black soldier fly larvae can replace up to 50% of soybean protein in chicken feed without reducing growth or meat quality. A 2026 study found chickens fed this diet grew 15-20% faster and cost less to raise than those on traditional feed.
How much faster do chickens grow on insect-based feed?
Chickens fed 50% insect protein gained 48.72 grams daily during the final growth phase, reaching 1,529.83 grams in 9 weeks. The study showed consistent improvements across all growth stages compared to control groups.
Is insect-based chicken feed cheaper than soybean feed?
According to the 2026 research, the 50% insect-replacement diet was the most economically feasible option, offering the highest profitability for farmers. Specific cost savings weren’t detailed, but the study emphasizes improved economic returns.
Does insect-fed chicken taste different from regular chicken?
The study measured growth and meat quality but didn’t evaluate taste or consumer preference. The meat quality metrics (dressing percentage, cut weights) were superior in insect-fed chickens, but sensory testing wasn’t conducted.
Will this work for all chicken breeds and locations?
This study tested only one breed (Sasso-TT4) in Ethiopia. Results may differ with other breeds or climates. Farmers should start with 30% replacement and monitor results before increasing to 50%.
Want to Apply This Research?
- Track weekly chicken weight gain and daily feed consumption. Measure the weight of each chicken weekly and record total feed provided daily. Calculate feed conversion ratio (total feed divided by weight gain) every two weeks to monitor efficiency improvements.
- If using the app to manage a chicken operation, set a reminder to source black soldier fly larvae meal from local producers and gradually transition your flock from soybean-based to insect-based feed over 1-2 weeks. Log the cost per pound of each feed type to monitor savings.
- Create a long-term tracking dashboard comparing three metrics: average bird weight, feed cost per pound of meat produced, and total flock profitability. Compare these metrics monthly across different feed types to identify the optimal insect-protein replacement percentage for your specific operation.
This research was conducted on one chicken breed in a controlled laboratory setting in Ethiopia. Results may not apply to other chicken breeds, geographic locations, or farming conditions. Before switching your flock to insect-based feed, consult with a veterinarian or poultry nutritionist familiar with your specific operation. This article is for informational purposes and should not replace professional agricultural or veterinary advice. Individual results may vary based on feed quality, farm management, and environmental factors.
This research translation is published by Gram Research, the science division of Gram, an AI-powered nutrition tracking app.