Project name: “ALTEMO: Feeding early-stage piglets with Tenebrio molitor larvae: effects on intestinal development and health”
Participants: NOEL ALIMENTARIA SAU (leader), SELECCIÓN BATALLÉ SA (beneficiary), FRISELVA SA (beneficiary), INNOVACC (coordinator), IRTA (OPI), Iberinsect (contractor).
Budget: €82,986.87
Grant: €67,238.97
Project summary:
Animal plasma is a by-product of slaughterhouses, traditionally derived from pig blood or a mixture of bovine and porcine blood. Currently, in Europe, plasma used for animal feed must come exclusively from non-ruminant animals and be produced in authorized facilities. This protein source, rich in albumins and globulins, stands out for its high digestibility and high biological value, making it especially useful in the feeding of newly weaned piglets. Plasma helps improve intestinal health and animal productivity thanks to its protective properties, possibly due to its content of active immunoglobulins.
The dietary transition in piglets is a critical process, marked by stress and the challenges of adapting to a solid diet. At this stage, the use of feed containing small proportions of plasma (2-6%) helps reduce weaning complications, improving intake and digestion and lowering mortality rates. However, the high cost of plasma limits its use.
For this reason, the ALTEMO project proposes more sustainable and cost-effective alternatives, such as the inclusion of insect protein in pre-starter feeds, as an innovative solution. The main objective is to provide evidence on how replacing plasma protein with Tenebrio molitor protein affects the development and intestinal health of piglets, while also improving the sustainability of the system. This alternative is presented as a viable option to reduce dependence on traditional sources such as plasma and soy, while ensuring a nutritious, high-quality product.
In addition, the project aims to address the European Union’s social demands regarding food sustainability and animal welfare. Implementing this innovation would help reduce food waste, offer more sustainable solutions, and help combat antimicrobial resistance, meeting the requirements of intensive production in the livestock sector.
An action under the 2023-2027 CAP Strategic Plan, co-financed by:
