Dietary Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal Improves Growth Performance and Meat Quality Associated with Enhanced Antioxidant Capacity and Intestinal Health in Wenchang Chickens
Simple Summary Wenchang chicken farmers face high feed costs and heavy dependence on soybean meal. Insect meal derived from black soldier fly larvae is a promising alternative protein, but its effects on this breed are unknown. We fed 192 female Wenchang chickens diets with 0%, 5%, 10%, or 15% insect meal for 42 days. The 15% insect meal diet increased final body weight, improved feed efficiency, and lowered the feed cost per kilogram of weight gain. Meat quality improved: it was redder, more tender, and retained more moisture. Gut health improved, with the results showing a better intestinal structure, healthier gut bacteria, a greater ability to fight cell damage, and reduced gut damage signs. Overall, replacing conventional feed with 15% insect meal has beneficial effects on the growth, meat quality, and gut health of Wenchang chickens. This study supports the use of insect protein to lower costs, reduce soybean reliance, and promote sustainable chicken production.