Sericulture in Poultry Farming: A Sustainable Feed Alternative

Abstract

Integrating sericulture by-products into poultry farming offers a sustainable and innovative solution for modern animal husbandry. As the global poultry industry grapples with rising feed costs, environmental concerns, and resource limitations, identifying alternative, nutrient-rich feed sources have become increasingly vital. Sericulture, primarily focused on silk production, yields significant quantities of by-products such as silkworm pupae. These pupae are rich in high-quality proteins, essential amino acids, and fatty acids, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional protein sources like soybean meal and fishmeal. This study examines the potential of incorporating silkworm pupae meal into poultry feed formulations. Research and feeding trials have shown enhanced growth performance, improved feed conversion ratios, and overall health benefits in poultry without compromising meat or egg quality. The utilization of silkworm pupae also contributes to waste reduction and promotes circular bioeconomy practices by repurposing agricultural residues. The adoption of sericulture by-products in poultry farming supports both environmental sustainability and economic viability. It provides an avenue for reducing the ecological footprint of animal agriculture while offering additional income streams for sericulture farmers. Moreover, this interdisciplinary approach aligns with the broader goals of sustainable agriculture by promoting food security, resource efficiency, and rural development. In conclusion, the integration of silkworm pupae into poultry diets represents a scalable and sustainable feed alternative. Further studies focusing on optimal inclusion rates, processing techniques, and long-term effects are essential to enable widespread application and policy support for this eco-friendly innovation.