Application of electron beam (eBeam) to inactivate Salmonella in insects, insect meal, and frass

With the projected increase in the global population to 10 billion by 2050, the global agricultural system is under immense strain to meet the growing demand for food while also ensuring sustainability and efficiency. Insects present a promising alternative to traditional feed sources, as they can transform low-quality ingredients such as organic food waste into high-quality protein feed. As insects are rich in protein, essential amino acids, and other nutrients that are beneficial for animal health and growth, they indeed offer a promising alternative to traditional feed sources. However, there are concerns regarding potential health risks associated with consuming insects, such as allergens or pathogens. This study focuses on addressing a key knowledge gap by evaluating the efficacy of electron beam (eBeam) technology, an FDA-approved nonthermal intervention for the microbial decontamination of insect-based feed products. For this study, Salmonella Infantis was experimentally inoculated into 4 different matrices, including houseflies, mosquitoes, cricket meal, and frass. The samples were then subjected to a range of eBeam doses to determine the matrix-specific thresholds for pathogen, specifically Salmonella, inactivation. Our results indicate that even though the eBeam dose varied by substrate, complete inactivation of Salmonella was achieved at doses ranging from 5 to 12.5 kGy based on the type of matrix. These results underscore the potential of eBeam technology as a scalable, nonthermal solution to enhance the microbial safety of insect-based feeds, and its adoption may significantly contribute to food safety and sustainability.