By Jamie Martin
Insect frass, a waste product from farming insects like mealworms and crickets, is gaining recognition as an organic soil amendment. It consists of insect waste, uneaten feed, and molted skins and is rich in nutrients essential for plant growth.
A USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) study in collaboration with the University of Arkansas found that insect frass contains higher levels of carbon and nitrogen than synthetic fertilizers and has fewer harmful pathogens than traditional manure.
A two-year study demonstrated that yellow mealworm frass doubled soil carbon levels and tripled nitrogen levels compared to poultry litter and ammonium nitrate. Crops grown in frass-treated soil also showed yields and carbon dioxide emissions similar to conventional fertilizers.
“Insect frass substantially improved soil fertility which showed its ability to be used as an alternative to inorganic fertilizers,” said Amanda Ashworth, an ARS soil scientist.
With insect farming projected to grow by 28% annually and reach an $8 billion market by 2030, researchers suggest using insect frass as part of circular agricultural systems to improve soil health sustainably.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National