Knowledge center
EnviroFlight publications
Turning knowledge into value and driving social change
Our research and development efforts enhance production efficiency, boost nutritional value and improve sustainability. We go beyond the theoretical by constantly challenging what’s possible to innovatively transform knowledge into tangible, commercial value and meaningful social change.
Research
Belief in ideas, trust in research, discovery through collaboration
Our research teams meticulously analyze every aspect of the manufacturing process, from initial egg production to final product processing. This comprehensive approach supports our commercial operations and resolves any inconsistencies before our products reach our customers. Since our founding in 2009, our R&D program has been pivotal in evolving from a pilot plant to the United States’ first commercial-scale Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) manufacturer.
BSFL nutrition
The BSFL nutrition research team focuses on identifying sustainable, consistent feed ingredients for our BSFL to produce high-quality ingredients for animal feed and pet food. We collaborate with external partners to conduct animal feed trials, demonstrating the safety and benefits of BSFL ingredients in various animal species’ diets. These trials also enhance our understanding of the positive impacts of BSFL on animal nutrition, the environment, and regulatory support. Utilizing the latest technologies in our internal and external laboratories, we ensure our commercial products maintain the highest quality, in alignment with our mission.
Animal nutrition and health
Our animal nutrition and health research team investigates the unique characteristics of our BSFL that offer benefits beyond nutrition, such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), chitin, and lauric acid. Collaborating with universities and contract research organizations, we conduct small and commercial-scale research projects. These efforts help us fully understand the potential of our BSFL in animal feeds and pet foods, contributing to the advancement of the industry.
BSFL genetics
Our BSFL genetics research team is dedicated to maximizing the sustainability opportunities offered by the unique biology of the black soldier fly. By establishing a breeding program using both traditional and molecular breeding methods, we study their biology and life history across different populations and individuals. Identifying key genotypic and phenotypic traits associated with all life stages of the black soldier fly, we are developing innovative approaches to advance the insect-ingredient animal feed industry.
Benefits of using black solider fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae in livestock diets
Benefits of using Black Solider Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae in livestock Diets. (Authors: Bree Modica, MS; Liz Koutsos, PhD; date of publication March 2023)
Improvements in performance of nursery pigs provided with supplemental oil derived from BSF
Improvements in Performance of Nursery Pigs Provided with Supplemental Oil Derived from Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae (Authors: Eric van Heugten; Gabriela Martinez; Alejandra McComb; Liz Koutsos; date of publication November 23, 2022)
Insects as nutrition and enrichment: The benefits of feeding whole dried BSFL to animals
Insects as Nutrition and Enrichment: The Benefits of Feeding Whole Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae to Animals (Author: B. Modica; date of publication November 1, 2022)
Immunomodulatory potential of black soldier fly larvae
Immunomodulatory potential of black soldier fy larvae: applications beyond nutrition in animal feeding programs (Authors: Elizabeth Koutsos, Bree Modica, and Tarra Freel)
Alternative proteins in pet nutrition
Alternative Proteins in Pet Nutrition: Advantages of Insect Ingredients in Dog & Cat Diets (Author: B. Modica; date of publication: April 28, 2022)
Palatability and apparent total tract macronutrient digestibility
Palatability and Apparent Total Tract Macronutrient Digestibility of Retorted BSFL-Containing Diets and Their Effects on the Fecal Characteristics of Cats Consuming Them (Authors: S. Do, L. Koutsos, A. McComb, T. Phungviwatnikul, M. de Godoy, & K. Swanson; date of publication: 2022)
Could insects be used to feed pets and other animals?
Could Insects be Used to Feed Pets and Other Animals? (Authors: L. Koutsos, C. Kuball, & B. Modica; date of publication: October 28, 2019)
Insects in aquaculture feed
Insects in Aquaculture Feed: Nutrition and Beyond (Author: B. Modica; date of publication: January 2022)
Digestibility and safety of dry black soldier fly larvae meal in dogs
Digestibility and Safety of Dry Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal and BSFL Oil in Dogs (Authors: T. Freel, A. McComb, & L. Koutsos; date of publication: 2021)
Nutrient and amino acid digestibility of black soldier fly larvae
Nutrient and Amino Acid Digestibility of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Differing in Age Using the Precision-Fed Cecectomized Rooster Assay (Authors: S. Do, L. Koutsos, P. Utterback, C. Parsons, M. de Godoy, & K. Swanson; date of publication: 2020)