Safety evaluation of the oils extracted from edible insects (Tenebrio molitor and Pachymerus nucleorum) as novel food for humans

Abstract

ABSTRACT Increased concerns about ensuring food safety motivated the exploration of insects as an alternative protein source. It has been reported that Tenebrio molitor (TM) and Pachymerus nucleorum (PN) larvae are great protein and lipid sources with considerable concentrations of unsaturated fatty acids. Nevertheless, little attention has been given to the safety of using these edible insects. This study presents the acute and subacute (28 days) toxicological profile of the oil extracted from TM and PN larvae. The TM and PN larvae have all essential amino acids and the oils extracted from them fostered a considerable reduction in cholesterol and glucose levels of the treated rats. The experiments suggested that the TM and PN oils have low toxicity since it did not cause any lethality as well as no changes in hematological parameters. HIGHLIGHTSThis study presents the acute and subacute (28 days) toxicological profile of the oil extracted from TM and PN larvae.The oils fostered a considerable reduction in cholesterol and glucose levels of the treated animals.TM and PN larvae oils have low toxicity.This study suggests the safe use of the tested doses of the oils extracted from TM and PN larvae.