Influence of dietary black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) meal on the quality attributes of aquaculture fish products: a meta-analysis

Abstract This study employed systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of black soldier fly meal (BSFM) on the fillet quality of key farmed fish species. In rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss ), BSFM inclusion significantly improved fillet lightness, as well as saturated fatty acid (SFA) and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) contents (SMD = 0.45, 0.93, and 0.61, respectively; all ). However, total PUFA, including health-beneficial n-3 PUFA like EPA and DHA, decreased with BSFM supplementation. Lipid content in trout fillets increased, while protein and moisture levels showed minimal change. In gilthead seabream ( Sparus aurata ), BSFM enhanced lipid, SFA, and n-6 PUFA levels but reduced protein, ash content, and EPA levels. Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar ) fillets had elevated lipid content but lower moisture, protein, and MUFA, with no significant effect on DHA or EPA. For common carp ( Cyprinus carpio ), BSFM increased protein but lowered lipid content, with stable moisture and ash levels. These findings suggest that BSFM’s impact on fillet quality is complex and varies by species, requiring further study to clarify its effects, particularly on health-relevant fatty acid profiles.