WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS
In this newly published peer-reviewed study, researchers compared black soldier fly larvae meal with traditional animal proteins and emerging alternative ingredients.
Black soldier fly protein demonstrated the highest protein concentration and intestinal digestibility among the ingredients tested, reinforcing previous findings that insect protein can provide exceptional nutritional value for dogs.
For dog owners, that means more of the protein in the bowl can be absorbed and used by the body.
If you've ever wondered whether insect protein is really as nutritious as traditional animal proteins, new research provides one of the clearest answers yet.
INTRODUCTION
A newly published peer-reviewed study compared three very different ingredients:
- defatted black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFL)
- meat and bone meal
- fermented shiitake mushroom meal
Researchers wanted to know which ingredient provided the best nutritional value for dogs.
The results were impressive.
Across the measurements that matter most for protein nutrition—including protein concentration and intestinal digestibility—black soldier fly protein consistently came out on top.
For us at Jiminy's, this isn't surprising. Black soldier fly protein has always been at the heart of our Good Grub recipes because of its exceptional nutritional profile. But it's exciting to see independent researchers continue to validate what we've believed for years.
WHAT DID THE RESEARCHERS STUDY?
Researchers from Brazil evaluated three ingredients commonly considered for sustainable pet foods:
- Defatted black soldier fly larvae meal
- Meat and bone meal
- Fermented shiitake mushroom meal
Rather than simply measuring crude protein, they simulated how dogs digest food using laboratory models that mimic both the stomach and small intestine.
This allowed them to compare:
- Protein concentration
- Dry matter digestibility
- Protein digestibility
- Fiber
- Fat
- Overall nutritional characteristics
Because nutrients only benefit your dog if they can be digested and absorbed, digestibility is one of the most important measures of ingredient quality.
THE RESULTS: BLACK SOLDIER FLY PROTEIN LED IN THE METRICS THAT MATTER MOST
The study found that black soldier fly larvae meal had:
The highest protein concentration
BSFL contained nearly 50% crude protein, higher than the meat and bone meal tested.
Higher-quality protein provides the essential amino acids dogs need to support muscles, skin, immune function, and everyday health.
The highest intestinal protein digestibility
Protein isn't useful if it can't be absorbed.
Among all ingredients tested, BSFL achieved the highest intestinal protein digestibility, meaning more of the protein became available for the dog's body to use.
The highest dry matter digestibility
BSFL also had the greatest intestinal dry matter digestibility.
This suggests dogs may be able to utilize more of the nutrients contained in the ingredient compared with conventional meat and bone meal.
WHY DIGESTIBILITY MATTERS
Many dog owners focus on protein percentage listed on the label.
But digestibility is equally important.
Imagine two foods that both contain 25% protein.
If one protein is digested more efficiently, your dog actually receives more usable nutrition from every bowl.
Highly digestible proteins may also:
- reduce undigested protein reaching the large intestine
- support healthier digestion
- improve nutrient utilization
- help maintain lean muscle
Digestibility is one reason veterinarians often recommend highly digestible diets for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
WHAT MAKES BLACK SOLDIER FLY PROTEIN DIFFERENT?
Black soldier fly larvae are naturally rich in nutrients beyond protein alone.
Previous research has shown they contain:
- all essential amino acids
- beneficial medium-chain fatty acids such as lauric acid
- antimicrobial peptides
- important minerals
- B vitamins
- highly digestible protein
Additional studies have also shown black soldier fly protein can support gut health, maintain immune function, and serve as an effective alternative protein source for dogs.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR DOGS
For pet parents, the takeaway is straightforward.
This new research suggests that black soldier fly protein isn't simply a sustainable alternative to traditional meat ingredients.
It may actually provide nutritional advantages that help dogs get more from every meal.
That's particularly exciting for dogs who benefit from:
- highly digestible diets
- novel proteins
- foods formulated for sensitive stomachs
- complete, balanced nutrition
WHY JIMINY'S CHOSE BLACK SOLDIER FLY PROTEIN
At Jiminy's, sustainability has never been the only reason we use black soldier fly protein.
We chose it because it combines several characteristics we rarely find together:
- Highly digestible complete protein
- Rich source of essential nutrients
- Naturally novel for most dogs
- Gentle on sensitive digestive systems
- Much smaller environmental footprint than conventional livestock
Studies like this continue to reinforce that choosing a more sustainable protein doesn't require sacrificing nutrition—in fact, it may provide additional benefits.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- A new peer-reviewed study compared black soldier fly protein, meat and bone meal, and fermented shiitake meal.
- Black soldier fly meal had the highest protein concentration.
- It also had the highest intestinal protein digestibility.
- It achieved the highest dry matter digestibility.
- These findings add to the growing body of evidence supporting black soldier fly protein as a premium ingredient for dog food.
FAQ
Is black soldier fly protein as nutritious as chicken or beef?
Research increasingly suggests black soldier fly protein provides highly digestible, complete protein with an excellent amino acid profile. This study found it outperformed meat and bone meal in several key nutritional measurements.
What is protein digestibility?
Protein digestibility measures how much of the protein your dog can break down and absorb. Higher digestibility means more usable nutrition.
Is black soldier fly protein good for dogs with food sensitivities?
Because black soldier fly protein is a novel protein for most dogs, it is often well suited for dogs with suspected food sensitivities. Always consult your veterinarian if your dog has diagnosed food allergies.
Why does Jiminy's use black soldier fly protein?
We chose it because it combines excellent nutrition, high digestibility, and sustainability. As research continues to emerge, we're encouraged to see independent studies confirming many of the nutritional advantages we've long believed in.
Want to explore more research?
Visit our Research Roundup, where we track peer-reviewed studies on insect protein, allergies, gut health, oral health, digestibility, and more.
