This week, I attended a live online Q&A session regarding insect-based protein in pet foods. The industry experts answered questions regarding the latest innovations and industry trends.
BUGS IN MY DOG'S FOOD!?
Insect-based protein is AAFCO approved for use in dog foods formulated for adult maintenance, and foods and treats using insects are already on the shelves.
I had my own questions about insect-based protein use; and I am not yet convinced they can provide the superior amino acid bioavailability of animal based proteins.
Until more papers are published, I will not be recommending insect-based foods to canine athletes or for puppies, for example, where amino acid availability is of utmost importance.
That said, I do think there is a place for insect-based foods on shelves in the future. Let's look at the main points presented during the Q&A.
Sustainability. Insect-based protein is presented as a more sustainable protein than animal protein in that they are fed "feed-based" ingredients; often including leftovers from retail food industry and/or the by-products of food or agriculture manufacturing.
Intestinal health benefits. Insects produce some interesting anti-microbial peptides that may be beneficial to gut health. In addition, the fiber fraction of insects can act as a prebiotic, promoting growth of good bacteria; the studies are mostly in fish (to date) but scientists are learning more about the number and types of compounds.
Bioavailability. If anyone reading this listened to either of my recent webinars, you know that if one amino acid is deficient ("limited"), the body's use of all of the others is affected. The presenters assured us that the amino acid profile of insect-based proteins are similar to a high quality poultry meal. The first "limiting" amino acid is methionine, but insects are a good source of choline, which acts to spare methionine. Taurine, is a non-essential but beneficial amino acid for dogs (it's essential for cats) is found in the flight muscles of crickets, which is a common ingredient in insect based proteins.
While insect protein may not have a complete amino acid profile by itself, it is common practice in manufacturing to split protein across several ingredients to ensure complete amino acid availability. Manufacturers can also supplement single amino acids to ensure a complete profile is delivered in the final product.
Allergies/Sensitivities/Intolerances. Insect based proteins may be useful in elimination diets, when all other proteins have been exhausted. However, insects are not "hypoallergenic". There is some data in people suggesting that there is a potential for a cross reaction with shrimp allergies. This makes sense, as many insects are related to crustaceans.
Palatability. While many wild canids consume bugs as part of their carnivorous or omnivorous diet, palatability has not yet been thoroughly tested in dogs. And there certainly is the "yuck factor" that some owners will need to overcome! Most manufactured pet foods contain many other palatable ingredients and spray on enhancers and "digests", so taste probably won't be an issue for most dogs.
Essential Fatty Acid profile. Apparently, crickets and mealworms are what you feed them - they would accumulate any fatty acid compounds included in their feed. Black Soldier Fly Larvae, on the other hand, produce an abundance of uric acid, which makes it harder to increase the omega 3 fatty acids (EPA + DHA) in this species.
Oxidation. Pet foods that contain insect-based protein will have the same shelf life issues as conventional ingredients.
Harvesting. According to the presenters, "insect welfare", is a priority. "A literature review is underway to identify questions that are yet unanswered". Insects are generally killed before processing, but it was not clear if this is a regulation.
In conclusion, it was an interesting topic. But don't worry, I won't be making any client buy mealworms, larvae or crickets for use in any diet plan!
Meanwhile, puppy Kale is eating a moth as I type.