Algae2Insect – Enhancing the production and the nutritional profile of yellow mealworms by using macroalgal byproducts as feeding supplements

Insect production has significant potential as a protein source in feed, but within the EU the choice of feed substrates is strictly regulated. Many available bioresources—such as food waste and animal by‑products—cannot be used, and competition for grain‑ and plant‑based substrates is high. This creates a clear need for alternative and sustainable feed sources for insect farming.

Algae2Insect investigates whether restreams from cultivated macroalgae can serve as a suitable dietary supplement for mealworms. The project conducts feeding trials using algae pulp from sugar kelp (Saccharina latissima) and dulse (Palmaria palmata) as additives in larval feed. The study evaluates both potential benefits—including nutritional value and fatty‑acid composition—and possible risk factors related to the transfer of undesirable substances.

The goal is to fill an important knowledge gap and contribute to more circular, resource‑efficient and sustainable value chains for both algae cultivation and insect production.