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Scientists at the University of California-Riverside have developed a small-scale system that transforms food waste into high-protein animal feed and fertilizer.
The system uses black soldier flies, which offer a sustainable solution to an environmental problem.
Black soldier flies have long been used by cities and industry to break down food scraps and agricultural waste.
Compared to industrial-scale operations, which require significant infrastructure and staffing, the system is far more affordable and accessible.
The setup lets people recycle food waste right where it’s produced, either on a farm, in a greenhouse, or even at a large residence. Scientists ran their experiment using food waste from a campus dining hall.
Black soldier fly larvae are sought after as a protein-rich feed for poultry and fish.
Their manure, called frass, is a valuable soil additive. Scientists added that this project isn’t just waste management, it’s also resource creation, taking what people don’t want and turning it into something they do want.
