A Review on Insect Frass: Nature’s Hidden Treasure for Soil Fertility

The growing demand for sustainable agricultural practices has led to an increased interest in insect farming and its by-products. Insect frass, consisting of insect excreta, exuviae, and residual feed particles, is emerging as a promising biofertilizer due to its rich nutrient profile and microbial communities. Frass has been shown to enhance plant growth, improve soil fertility, and indirectly contribute to pest management, making it a valuable resource in the circular bioeconomy. This review summarizes current knowledge on the composition, benefits, mechanisms of action, challenges, and future perspectives of insect frass valorization, highlighting its potential role as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fertilizers.