Evaluation of fertilizer value of residues obtained after processing kitchen waste with Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia Illucens) larvae / Zalwanie Idayu Md Zawawi

Food waste accounts for a significant portion of the organic waste that is being produced at an increasing rate around the world. Organic waste, including food waste, is primarily disposed of through landfill disposal, incineration, and anaerobic digestion; however, more sustainable methods of treatment are required. Treatment of organic waste with Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae (BSFL) is an environmentally safe and cost-effective method that is gaining popularity around the world. The black soldier fly decomposes various types of organic waste into high-value biomasses such as oils and proteins. This study presents research on the treatment of food waste by black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) and their bioconversion efficiencies. Perspectives on BSFL growth during waste treatment processes, as well as optimal rearing conditions, are provided. Food waste (mixed kitchen waste) with different masses of 360 g, 400 g, and 440 g was weighed and placed into containers. After that, 40 g of larvae were introduced into the food waste samples and analysed for 8 days. Each sample was analysed in the laboratory, and it was observed that the efficiency of larvae converting food waste to compost was dependent on a few factors, such as temperature, type of food waste, and the rate of darkness of the container. Larvae were able to accumulate a reasonable amount of acid in the sample and turn the pH of the compost alkaline. Therefore, BSFL played a crucial role in the recycling of food waste, particularly in reducing the time required for composting, and it used low-cost methods.