In the quest for sustainable and circular agricultural practices, researchers have turned their attention to an unlikely hero: apple pomace. This often-discarded byproduct of apple juice production could find new purpose as a feed ingredient for mealworms, according to a recent study published in the journal *Insects*. The research, led by Michelle L. DuVall from the School of Agriculture and Food Systems at West Virginia University, explores the potential of apple pomace (AP) to support the growth and nutrition of *Tenebrio molitor* larvae, commonly known as mealworms.
Apple pomace, a fibrous residue left after apple juice extraction, has long been considered a waste product. However, with millions of tons produced globally each year, finding a viable use for this material could significantly reduce agricultural waste and enhance sustainability in the food production chain. DuVall’s study investigates whether incorporating AP into mealworm diets could offer a nutritious and cost-effective alternative to traditional feed.
The study involved feeding mealworm larvae either a standard diet with water-storing beads (WB) or a diet supplemented with apple pomace. After four weeks, the researchers observed no significant differences in weight gain or survival rates between the two groups. Interestingly, the larvae fed with apple pomace showed a slightly better weekly probability of survival, which the researchers speculate could be due to the antioxidants present in apples.
“Apple pomace contains a variety of beneficial compounds, including antioxidants, that might contribute to the overall health and survival of the mealworms,” DuVall explained. “This suggests that apple pomace could be a valuable addition to mealworm diets, not just as a filler but as a functional ingredient.”
When analyzing the nutritional composition of the mealworms, the researchers found that protein, fat, and ash levels were similar between the two groups. However, the moisture content was higher in the WB cohort, likely because water beads provide a more direct source of hydration. This finding highlights the importance of considering different dietary components to optimize mealworm growth and nutrition.
The implications of this research are significant for the agriculture sector. As the demand for sustainable and alternative protein sources grows, mealworms are emerging as a promising option. They are rich in protein and can be efficiently farmed with minimal resources. By utilizing apple pomace as a feed ingredient, farmers could reduce waste and lower production costs, making mealworm farming even more economically viable.
“This study opens up new possibilities for the agricultural industry to adopt circular practices,” DuVall noted. “By repurposing apple pomace, we can create a more sustainable food system that minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency.”
The findings also suggest that further research could explore the optimal levels of apple pomace in mealworm diets and investigate other potential benefits, such as improved nutritional profiles or enhanced disease resistance. As the agricultural sector continues to seek innovative solutions to sustainability challenges, the integration of byproducts like apple pomace into animal feed could pave the way for a more circular and efficient industry.
In the broader context, this research underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between agriculture, food science, and environmental sustainability. By leveraging the expertise of researchers like DuVall, the agricultural sector can continue to evolve and adapt to the changing demands of a more sustainable future.