Optimisation of Protease-Treated Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) for Broiler Feed

Hermetia illucens or black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) have recently been used as an alternative source of protein in the processing of feed for various types of animals. Monogastric animals such as broiler, however, unable to completely consume all nutrient sources upon ingestion of the meal. The protease was then developed and used to treat the BSFL so that protein can be converted into amino acids, thereby enhancing the absorption of nutrients from broiler. In this analysis, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to investigate the optimum condition in obtaining the highest decrease in protein content (%) of the BSFL. A Central Composite Model (CCD) model with three variables: water volume (5-8 mL), protease volume (100-300 μL) and incubation time (30-90 min) was used to investigate the response variable, which was a decrease in the protein content (%). At the end of this experiment, optimum conditions were established as 5 mL of water, 100 μL of protease and 30 minutes of incubation time to treat BSFL to achieve a decrease in protein content of 10.5266%.