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A 2024 peer-reviewed publication in MDPI Animals investigated the nutritional possibilities associated with two new protein sources—mealworm meal and yeast extract—as part of a comparative examination of six protein ingredients in canine diets. The study focused on digestibility, energy utilization, and amino acid profiles using Beagle dogs as the study model.

Mealworm Meal & Yeast Extract: Dual Novel Proteins for Sustainable Canine Nutrition

Interesting News . July 08, 2025

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A 2024 peer-reviewed publication in MDPI Animals investigated the nutritional possibilities associated with two new protein sources—mealworm meal and yeast extract—as part of a comparative examination of six protein ingredients in canine diets. The study focused on digestibility, energy utilization, and amino acid profiles using Beagle dogs as the study model.

Novel Proteins Identified

  • Microbe-derived protein and functional additive – Mealworm Meal (Tenebrio molitor) – insect-derived protein
  • Yeast extract (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)

Scientific Findings

Digestibility and Energy Utilization

A keratin protein created by processing chicken feathers into extruded feather meal to optimize the availability and digestibility of keratin protein.

Scientific Results

Extrusion Improves Digestibility

  • Mealworm meal had reasonably high digestible energy (DE) and metabolizable energy (ME) like or higher than meat and fish meal.
  • Yeast extract did contain as high energy density, but nonetheless, offered functional nutrition components accounting for nucleotides, glutamic acid, and B-vitamins toward metabolic health and cellular repair.

Amino Acid profile

  • Mealworm protein was protein was rich in essential amino acids including lysine and methionine important for muscle maintenance and immune system function.
  • Yeast extract contributed to arginine, glutamine, and bioactive peptides associated with gut health and recovery.

Environmental Consideration

  • Insect farming takes up significantly less land, water, and feed than traditional livestock.
  • Yeast extract is produced from the fermentation of but waste by-products and can be produced very easily and at scale to facilitate a circular manufacturing process.

Pet Food Relevance

Feature Mealworm Meal Yeast Extract
Protein Quality High in essential amino acids Moderate protein, high in functional compounds
Digestibility High DE & ME Enhances nutrient absorption and gut lining support
Functional Benefits Nutritional completeness Immunomodulation, gut repair, palatability enhancement
Sustainability Low environmental footprint By-product valorization through fermentation
Product Formats Dry kibble, treats, high-protein diets Wet food, toppers, supplements, functional treats

Next Steps for Pet Food Companies

1.Product Formulation
  • Utilize mealworm meal as a partial or primary protein source in insect-forward or hypoallergenic products (i.e. recipes).
  • Include yeast extract at functional inclusion (range of 0.5–2%) levels for additional immune and digestive support.
2.Sourcing & Certification
  • Work with certified insect farms (i.e. GMP+ or ISO).
  • Ensure yeast extracts are food-grade and meet pet nutrition safety requirements (e.g. FEDIAF, AAFCO).
Mealworm Meal & Yeast Extract blog
  1. Regulatory Requirements
  • Confirm legality of use race in the region (e.g. EFSA allows mealworm in pet food, AAFCO is status by states).
  1. Palatability Testing
  • Include product trials (testing) as yeast extract can be used as a natural flavour enhancer.
5.Sustainability Marketing
  • Promote (sustainability) “insect-based”, “fermentation-derived” and “gut heath supportive” for the eco-consumer.
6.Product Positioning
  • Position as “clean-label”, eco-pet or limited-ingredient diet.
  • Great for allergy-sensitive, easy-to digest, seniors, or active dog breeds needing functional and sustainable nutrition.

Bottom Line

The results of this study provided strong evidence that mealworm meal and yeast extract were viable, digestible and sustainable food protein sources for the pet food industry. The combination of mealworm meal and yeast extract offered both macronutrient value and functional health benefit. These ingredients are a good choice for next generation canine formulations that wish to pursue innovation nutritionally and environmentally.

Citation:

MDPI Animals (2024). Evaluation of Insect and Microbial Proteins in Canine Nutrition: Digestibility, Energy, and Functional Value. Volume 14, Issue 11, Article 1599. 

Summary Table of Novel Proteins & Pet Food Potential

S.no Novel Protein What It Is Why It Matters How It Can Be Used in Pet Food
1 Squid Meal & Shrimp Hydrolysate Protein from squid and shrimp by-products High-quality protein with all essential amino acids; shrimp has antioxidants, which help with gut health Excellent for digestive care formulas; addition of variety for pets with allergies or sensitivities
2 Precision-Fermented Lamb Protein Lamb protein grown using yeast (no animals needed) The same nutrition as lamb meat but with an environmentally friendly footprint Great for socially responsible pet owners looking for real animal protein without the negative livestock footprint
3 Fish Protein Hydrolysates (FPHs) Protein from fish leftovers, broken down with enzymes Creates extremely high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits; aids in gut health A functional boost for pets with sensitive stomachs; sustainable use of marine by-products
4 Methane-Fermented Microbial Protein Protein produced by using methane gas as the base for edible biomass Highly digestible, complete protein; turns greenhouse gas into useful food An exciting, ultra-sustainable protein choice for environmentally focused pet food brands
5 Keratin from Chicken Feathers Protein extracted from processed feathers Potential low-cost option using animal waste; digestibility improving with tech Could be used in eco-focused dry foods, especially where reducing waste is a priority
6 Mealworm Meal & Yeast Extract Insect protein and microbial by-product Mealworms: high energy, low impact; Yeast: rich in nutrients, good for gut health Together, they offer nutrition and sustainability-great for new-generation, balanced diets

Conclusion

Marine, microbial and precision-fermented proteins are poised to dramatically change pet food innovation through higher nutritional value and sustainability. The safety, digestibility and functionality of these proteins are all supported through science from shrimp hydrolysates to proteins fermented from methane. Pet brands who want to innovatively create eco-smart functional pet food solutions can start to act.

You can partner with the Food Research Lab to,

  • Develop new formulations based on proteins.
  • Conduct pilot-scale studies.
  • Support regulatory and safety compliance.
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