Supply chain optimization and analysis of Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly) bioconversion of surplus foodstuffs

• Published in: Journal of cleaner production 2021-10, Vol.321, p.128711, Article 128711
• Main Authors: Suckling, James, Druckman, Angela, Small, Richard, Cecelja, Franjo, Bussemaker, Madeleine
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Black soldier fly larvae; Circular economy; Insect bioconversion; Optimization; Supply chain
• ISSN: 0959-6526; 1879-1786
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.128711

The human food supply chain is placing great strain upon the environment. This is compounded by the creation of wastes at all points along the supply chain. Yet many of these “wastes” are instead surplus foodstuffs that may yet have the potential to be used. Recapturing the value in these surplus foodstuffs is essential in reducing environmental impact of the food supply chain. Insect bioconversion of such surplus foodstuffs back into animal feed is one promising way of doing this. In this study an optimization-based decision support tool is developed to inform bioconversion businesses what locations to source surplus foodstuffs from, where to locate processing facilities and what business model to pursue. A case study business is presented, which utilizes Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly larvae, BSFL) in small bioconversion units which have flexible location options, i.e. close to individual sources of surplus foodstuffs. Spent brewer's grains (SBG) are used as a case study surplus foodstuff. The quantities and locations of SBG are identified within the South East UK. Three business models are evaluated, one using the live BSFL to feed local poultry and two based upon dried BSFL-meal used in aquaculture feeds. The live BSFL business model is shown to be most viable at present with the best margins, and greatest resilience to model perturbations. The novelty of this study is the application of optimization understand the reality of how insect bioconversion may operate within current supply chains, as opposed to the technical or social aspects more usually studied. •Optimization of bioconversion of surplus foodstuff using black soldier fly larvae.•Decision support tool created based upon optimization routines.•Three business models explored, based on dried or live black soldier fly larvae.•Feeding of live insects to local poultry found to be best business model.•Feed conversion ratio shown to be key parameter in business viability.