Optimization of a hatchery residue fermentation process for potential recovery by black soldier fly larvae

The conventional management of hatchery residues (HR) poses environmental issues and health risks for handlers. This study evaluates the potential of fermentation to reduce pathogens and odors in HR, enabling them to be recovered into feed using black soldier fly. This saprophagous edible insect is valued for its ability to efficiently bioconvert organic residues into high-quality biomass. Due to the low carbohydrate content of HR, whey permeate was added at lactose inclusion levels of 0, 5, 15, 25, and 35% (dry basis) to optimize fermentation. Using a commercial ferment starter culture (0.3%, wet basis), HR were fermented under semi-anaerobic conditions for two weeks. Fermentation metrics, including pH, microbiological loads (total aerobic mesophilic, presumptive lactic acid bacteria, coliforms, Escherichia coli), volatile fatty acids, and volatile organic compounds, were monitored at days 0, 3, 7, and 14. Optimal stabilization was achieved with lactose inclusion of 15 to 35% after 7 days, which reduced pH (<5.3), increased lactic (87.82 mg/g) and acetic (20.28 mg/g) acid production, and decreased coliform and Escherichia coli counts below detection limit (1.7 log cfu/g). The production of compounds associated with unpleasant odors was also limited. The use of a ferment did not result in a greater reduction of coliform counts, the initial loads of lactic acid bacteria (> 7 log cfu/g) being sufficient to initiate spontaneous fermentation. However, ferment was found to be efficient in heated HR. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of fermentation for stabilizing HR, highlighting its potential for integration into insect bioconversion systems.