Sustainable Mealworm Farming

About

Rearing Mealworms on Beer and Vegetable Waste in a Self-Contained System Tech ID: UA19-096 Invention: This invention is a sustainable and waste-free system for farming mealworms as a protein source for human consumption. Background: Environmental efforts have created a demand for an alternative protein source for human consumption. Beef, pork, and chicken protein produce a significant amount of greenhouse gas, there is a need for a complete protein source that provides the same nutrients, that is cheaper to produce and has a lower environmental impact. Insects have been consumed regularly elsewhere for millennia, and over one fourth of the world’s population consumes bugs in their standard diet. Edible insects are eco-friendly, cost efficient, and high in protein. Mealworms are currently fed grain crops, which could otherwise be used for direct human consumption, such as oats or bran. Brewer’s grains and leaves are often composted or fed to other animals, so they could instead be used to feed mealworms. There is a need for cost- effective and eco-friendly feed system for growing mealworms, reusing waste products and using solar power to reduce energy consumption.