Analysing protein content in edible dung beetle larvae

Abstract

The consumption of insects by people as a source of protein, fat and vitamins offers a new perspective for the development of sustainable animal food products. A Study to determine the protein content of dung beetle using the Kjeldahl method was carried out at the Maasai Mara university Laboratory. The main aim of this study was to analyze the protein content in edible dung beetle (Scarabaeidae). Samples were collected from within the university compound and the protein content in them determined using Kjeldahl method. Dung beetles are beetles that feed partly or exclusively on dung. Farmed vegetables, fruit and animal-source foods are nutritious but expensive, and consumption is limited only to a certain group, that can afford them. By determining the protein content of scarab larvae it offered an alternative source for animal protein and therefore provide a simple solution to malnutrition. Statistical analysis by ANOVA and T-test were used to compare protein content variation in the different groups.