# Evaluation of the Nutritional Value of Insect-Based Complete Pet Foods
###### Abstract  
Since the legalization of insect protein in pet food, a variety of products incorporating this ingredient have emerged on the market. Although edible insects are acknowledged for high protein content, chitin can also elevate the quantity of indigestible carbohydrates. The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional adequacy of fourteen complete dog foods containing edible insects in accordance with the FEDIAF nutritional guidelines. Due to the use of insects as the predominant animal component in all diets, analyses of dietary fiber fractions were carried out to estimate the content of indigestible carbohydrates. The analyses included the assessment of chemical composition, calcium, and phosphorus levels and metabolizable energy. The findings were then compared with the data provided by the manufacturers. All diets were found to meet the minimum recommended levels from the FEDIAF nutritional guidelines for protein (18.0 g/100 g DM) and fat (5.5 g/100 g DM). However, discrepancies were noted between the label data and analysis results. The results for the dietary fiber fraction differed from the crude fiber content, which is consistent with the imprecision inherent to the crude fiber determination method. In one food, there was a discrepancy of up to 19.21 g between the NDF fraction and the crude fiber content. Calcium levels were inadequate in two foods, and furthermore, twelve foods exhibited an abnormal calcium/phosphorus ratio. These findings indicate that while edible insects can be a valuable protein source, their inclusion may lead to increased indigestible carbohydrates, potentially causing digestive issues and gastric discomfort in dogs. chemical composition; complete pet foods; dietary fiber fractions; edible insects; food labeling; indigestible carbohydrates; novel protein sources +
Footnote †: journal: Applied sciences  
impact, as it directly influences climate change through the emission of gases into the atmosphere [5]. The production of meat is associated with a considerable demand for water, which in turn contributes to the loss of biodiversity [5]. The water footprint of meat production, defined as the volume of water consumed in the process, is a crucial element to be considered when evaluating the environmental consequences of meat consumption [6]. The increasing popularity of insect consumption has significant implications for the pet food industry. This is primarily driven by an increase in demand for sustainable protein sources, the nutritional benefits of insects, and changing consumer perceptions. As the global population of companion animals continues to grow, there is an increasing need for high-quality, sustainable pet food options. The recognition of insects as a viable alternative to traditional protein sources such as beef, chicken, and fish is driven by their rich protein content and favorable environmental footprint. This shift responds to the rising costs and environmental concerns associated with conventional livestock farming and aligns with the broader movement towards sustainable food systems [7; 8; 9; 10]. The utilization of alternative protein sources, including plant-based proteins and insect-based foods, may present more sustainable options with a reduced environmental impact in comparison to traditional meat production [11; 12]. To address these issues, legislative amendments have been introduced over several years, with the objective of facilitating the incorporation of insect protein into nutritional regimes [13; 14; 15; 16]. In 2015, a number of insect species were designated as novel foods, and the European Food Safety Authority implemented amendments to the relevant legislation, with the result that they are henceforth referred to as livestock (Figure 1). As a consequence of these modifications, insect protein can be employed in the manufacture of feed for both livestock and companion animals [14; 15].