A Comparative Case Study of Black Soldier Fly Farming Systems in Malaysia: Practical Trade-Offs Between Automation and Low-Cost Approaches

Abstract BSF farming has been widely promoted as a sustainable solution for organic waste valorization and alternative protein production. However, most studies focus on controlled laboratory conditions. Relatively less attention has been given to real farm operations. This case study presents a comparative analysis of two BSF farms in Malaysia, which are a semi-automated, mid-scale facility and a smaller, manual, frass-focused operation. The semi-automated farm relies on retail food waste as its main feedstock. It uses mechanized systems and standardized production practices to increase output and improve process control. In contrast, the manual farm uses palm kernel cake (PKC). It focuses on low-cost infrastructure, flexible management, and frass as its main product. The comparison shows clear trade-offs between efficiency, cost, and adaptability. Automation increases production capacity, but it also increases energy use and infrastructure dependence. The manual system is more flexible and has lower operating costs, but production capacity is limited. Market conditions also affect both farms. Both farms face difficulties in expanding sales of larvae-based products. As a result, frass has become a more stable and widely accepted product, especially in local agricultural markets. The case highlights the importance of integrating technical, economic, and market considerations when evaluating BSF farming systems. It provides practical insights for students, researchers, producers, and policy makers interested in the development of sustainable and context-appropriate insect farming enterprises. Information © The Author 2026