Desempenho produtivo e qualidade de ovos de galinhas poedeiras, às 45 semanas de idade, alimentadas com dietas contendo farinha de larvas de tenebrio molitor sp.

Abstract

Egg production depends on balanced diets rich in high-quaality protein, with protein-based ingredientes such as soybean meal representing one of the most studied and widely adopted alternatives in poultry nutrition. However, the instability of the grain Market and the environmental impacts associated with soybean cultivation have driven the search for alternative protein sources. In this contexto, Tenebrio molitor (yellow mealworm) larval meal has emerged as a promising option due to its high levels of crude protein, essential amino acids, lipids, and micronutrientes, as well as its lower requirements for water and land use and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The presente study aimed to evaluate the productive performance and egg quality of laying hens, at 45 weeks of age, fed diets containing Tenebrio molitor larval meal. A total of 24 Isa Brown hens were assigned to two groups: a control group receiving a conventional diet, and a treatment group in which 3% of the diet consisted of T. molitor meal partially replacing soybean meal. Throughout the experimental perios, physicalegg parameters (weight, size, shape index, and shell thickness), eggshell cleanliness, chemical composition, and internal quality traits (albumen height and weight, yolk weight and diameter, pH, and color) were assessed. The results showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in egg production (total production and hen-day production), a significant reduction (p<0.05) in eggshell dirtiness, and na increase in shell weight in hens fed T. molitor meal, with no detrimental effects on the remaining parameters. It is concluded that the inclusion of 3% T. molitor larval meal is a viable and sustainable alternative for layer production, maintaining egg quality while contributing to reduced feed costs and environmental impacts.