Secondary products and bioactive compounds of Hermetia illucens: Extraction, chemical properties, and potential application of lipids

Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly [BSF]) represents a sustainable source of lipids for feed, bioenergy, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics applications. Black soldier fly larvae can bioconvert organic by-products into lipid biomass, thus accounting for up to 45% of their dry weight. Lipid yield and composition vary according to diet and life cycle stage, with the highest lipid accumulation observed in the prepupal stage. These lipids are particularly rich in lauric acid (C12:0), a saturated fatty acid known for its antimicrobial properties and a wide range of industrial applications. Lipid extraction from the larvae can be performed using techniques such as Soxhlet, microwave, ultrasound, or mechanical extraction, thereby ensuring high yields and efficient separation of lipid fractions. When larvae are reared on conventional substrates, such as agro-industrial by-products, the lipids can be incorporated into feed for fish, poultry, and pigs, thereby enhancing growth performance and feed efficiency. In contrast, lipids derived from larvae reared on nonconventional substrates, such as industrial residues, sludges, or manure, cannot be used in the food chain but represent a valuable resource for other sectors. In the bioenergy field, they are ideal for biodiesel production, thus meeting international standards (EN14214, ASTM D975), whereas in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, they are used for their antimicrobial, emollient, and anti-inflammatory properties. In conclusion, lipids from H. illucens provide innovative and sustainable solutions to meet the growing global demands in the food, energy, and industrial sectors, thereby promoting a circular economy and reducing environmental impact.