A new study from sustainability experts at Tunley Environmental suggests that oil derived from Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) could serve as a viable alternative to palm oil, offering a more sustainable solution to a commodity often linked to deforestation and biodiversity loss.
The findings are detailed in a whitepaper titled “Gotta Get Them Bugs – Black Soldier Fly Larvae and Their Potential to Replace Palm Oil,” authored by Dr Gareth Davies and Dr Tara Garraty. The research explores how BSFL oil could help reduce the environmental impact of vegetable oil production while maintaining supply chains across the food, personal care, and industrial sectors.
The Environmental Cost of Palm Oil
Palm oil is one of the most widely used vegetable oils in the world, found in everything from processed foods and cosmetics to biofuels. However, its production has been a major driver of deforestation, particularly in Southeast Asia, where large swathes of tropical rainforest have been cleared to make way for plantations. Despite the introduction of sustainable certification schemes, demand for palm oil continues to rise, placing immense pressure on ecosystems and contributing to climate change.
Dr Davies explained: “The palm oil industry has long struggled with sustainability challenges. Even with certified sustainable palm oil, the pressure on tropical environments remains immense. Our research highlights how BSFL oil could provide a practical and scalable alternative.”
Why Black Soldier Fly Larvae?
BSFL are known for their ability to break down organic waste, converting it into valuable by-products such as protein, fertiliser, and oil. The study highlights that BSFL oil has a triglyceride profile similar to palm oil, making it suitable for many of the same applications.
Crucially, BSFL farming requires significantly less land than palm oil plantations and can be carried out in controlled environments, reducing the need for deforestation. This method not only lowers environmental impact but also promotes circular economies by turning food and agricultural waste into a valuable resource.
Challenges and Opportunities
While BSFL oil presents an exciting alternative, its widespread adoption faces challenges. The paper outlines the need for refinement processes to ensure the oil meets industry standards, particularly for food-grade applications. Additionally, social and economic factors tied to palm oil production—such as the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers—must be considered in any transition.
Co-author Dr Garraty said: “The potential for BSFL oil is enormous, but scaling up production will require investment and regulatory support. This whitepaper provides a foundation for industries looking to explore more sustainable raw materials.”
As industries and governments seek urgent solutions to reduce deforestation and environmental degradation, researchers believe insect-derived oils could play a crucial role in the future of sustainable production.
The whitepaper is available for industry leaders and policymakers looking to explore innovative approaches to sustainable oil production.