UC Riverside scientists have created a small-scale system that transforms food waste into high-protein animal feed and fertilizer using black soldier flies, offering a sustainable solution to a major environmental problem.
Black soldier flies have long been used by cities and industry to break down food scraps and agricultural waste. Compared to industrial-scale operations, which require significant infrastructure and staffing, the DIY system is far more affordable and accessible.
“A commercial facility might process tons of food waste a day, but that comes with big capital and labor costs,” said Kerry Mauck, UCR entomologist who helped design and test the system…