How insect oil could revolutionize animal wellness

A new study reveals that oil extracted from black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) has potent anti-inflammatory effects on immune cells. The research found that a modified version of the oil can suppress harmful inflammatory signals while supporting metabolic health. The findings offer exciting potential for sustainable, natural feed additives that support animal immunity and reduce reliance on synthetic drugs.

A new study led by Professor Bertha (Betty) Schwartz from the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment Hebrew University of Jerusalem and a team of researchers shows promising advances in sustainable farming and animal nutrition. The study has uncovered powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties in oil derived from black soldier fly larvae (BSFL)—a waste-to-resource superfood already making waves in animal feed and fertilizer.But now, it’s not just for chickens and compost.

The team’s findings, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, reveal that a specially treated form of BSFL oil—dubbed MBSFL—can reduce key inflammatory signals in immune cells without compromising beneficial immune functions. In practical terms, this means MBSFL may one day offer a natural, sustainable way to help manage inflammation-related conditions in both animals and potentially even humans.

“We’re always looking for ways to reduce our reliance on synthetic additives in agriculture,” said Prof. Schwartz. “What’s exciting here is that black soldier fly larvae oil is not only a sustainable byproduct but may also have a genuine role in supporting animal immune health through natural pathways.”

Using advanced cell culture models and phosphoproteomic analysis, the research team demonstrated that MBSFL effectively dampens overactive immune responses by blocking inflammatory signaling pathways—especially the notorious NF-κB pathway—while promoting metabolic regulators like PPARδ that are associated with balanced, anti-inflammatory states.

The oil's effects appear tied to its unique fatty acid profile and naturally occurring bioactive compounds like lauric acid, isoprenoids, and oxylipins—already known to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

What this means for farmers:

• Healthier livestock: By modulating inflammation without weakening the immune system, MBSFL could help reduce reliance on antibiotics and improve recovery from infections or stress.
• Natural feed additive potential: BSFL oil could be developed into a feed supplement with functional health benefits—especially relevant in poultry and swine production.
• Waste upcycling: Since BSFL can be raised on organic waste, this research supports a circular economy model—transforming food scraps into high-value animal health solutions.

While the current study focuses on human immune cells in a lab, Prof. Schwartz notes that these findings lay the groundwork for trials in farm animals and open new doors for functional feed development in sustainable agriculture.

“This is a step forward in aligning animal health solutions with environmental stewardship,” she added. “The black soldier fly is proving that nature has plenty left to teach us.”