FIGHTING ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE WITH INSECT-BASED LIVESTOCK FEED

Studies have shown that the use of insect-based feed can be more cost-effective because it provides better digestible proteins than fishmealor soybean-based feeds

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Traditional livestock production systems have severe environmental consequences, including high greenhouse gas emissions, extensive land and water use, and risk of fostering antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Together with the steadily rising demand for nutrition, global and regional food systems have been exploring alternative ways to sustainably maintain their supply chains. Insect-based feed has emerged as one promising candidate.

The Indian Council of Agriculture (ICAR) and its affiliated centres have already been strengthening the adoption of insect-based feeds in the country. In March 2023, the ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA) signed an MoU with Ultra Nutri India, Pvt. Ltd. to explore the possibility of using insect-based feed in aquaculture. The aim was to use black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae as an ingredient in aqua-feed to improve growth and immunity.

In June 2024, CIBA and Loopworm, a Bengaluru-based manufacturer of insect-based proteins and fats, inked another MoU to evaluate the use of insect-based feed products in shrimp and Asian seabass. In January 2025, the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute confirmed a formal MoU with Coimbatore-based Bhairav Renderers.

AMR and livestock production

Animal husbandry accounts for more than half of all antibiotic use around the world and is expected to increase to 200,000 tonnes by 2030, up 53% from 2013. Over the last 70 years, antimicrobial compounds have been becoming embedded in livestock feed. They are used to treat diseases as well as to boost growth, in turn raising productivity.

Poultry giant Venky's marketing antibiotics for growth promotion in farms