Nutritional Potential of Oryctes rhinoceros larva

Abstract

The proximate and mineral profiles of the larva of Oryctes rhinoceros were investigated. The fatty acid profile of the larval oil and the amino acid profile of the larval protein were also determined and from the latter, the protein score was evaluated. A high protein content (42.29% wet weight) rich in the essential amino acids (with histidine, methionine and phenylalanine being predominant) with a protein score of 72.97% and valine as the limiting amino acid was observed. The larval oil had a high proportion (60.34%) of unsaturated fatty acids, including the essential fatty acid linoleic acid. A high ash content (12.70% wet weight) containing a high proportion of manganese and iron (3.80 mg 100 g^-1 and 10.70 mg 100 g^-1, respectively) was observed. The other mineral elements, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, copper and phosphorus were only present in small concentrations (0.20-0.99 mg 100 g^-1). The larva could form a base for new food/feed products of considerable nutritive value, especially in view of its high protein content.