In 2016, Ynsect launched a feed trial with Kasetsart University (Bangkok, Thailand) to test the performance of its product TMP™ (Tenebrio molitor defatted protein meal) on juvenile white leg shrimp (L. vannamei). Results found that the product has immune-stimulant properties.  

A control diet containing 25% fish meal (FM) was compared against a total of five different diets with increasing rates of inclusion of TMP™ as a replacement for the FM, which were designed with iso-nutritive contents.

No significant difference was assessed in the palatability test between the diets. The T5 diet (100% FM replacement by TMP™) increased weight gain by 21% and final body weight by 12.4% after 8 weeks of feeding, but the best results were found for the 10.3% TMP™ inclusion in the diet (50% FM replacement): an increase by 33.7% in weight gain and by 24% in final body weight after 8 weeks of feeding. The FCR decreased significantly by up to 25%. The apparent digestibility of proteins and lipids was above 97.4%.

A challenge test was performed with a frequent pathogen in aquaculture (Vibrio parahemolyticus), responsible for the well-known Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS). After 10 days, the survival rate reached 90% in the diet with 50% FM replacement by TMP™ compared to 56.7% in the control diet. Since the shrimp does not have an acquired immune system, this immuno-stimulant property is very promising.

Ynsect is launching new trials this year on the Atlantic salmon, on different marine species such as the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and the red seabream. The inclusion of mealworm oil TMO™ will also be tested in the grow-out phase of rainbow trout.

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