| dc.description.abstract | The Sustainable Development Goals agenda two and 6.2 focus on the achievement of zero hunger and attainment of safely managed sanitation by 2030. Yet, many developing countries, including Kenya, remain off track, with populations still vulnerable to nutrition and sanitation-related challenges. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) technology offers an innovative solution by converting organic and faecal waste into nutrient-rich protein and fat. These compounds can substitute soybean and fishmeal in animal feeds and potentially human food, addressing both food insecurity and waste management. However, the acceptability of BSFL-derived products among consumers and producers remains uncertain. This study examined perceptions and attitudes of consumers toward broiler chicken fed on BSFL-based diets, explored producers’ views on rearing and consuming such chicken, and compared sensory evaluation results between BSFL-fed and conventionally fed broilers. A convergent mixed-methods design was applied, combining structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and laboratory-based sensory evaluations. 150 one-day-old broiler chicks were reared in different pods (2m by 2m) in triplicate pens. At 10 weeks, subjected to 24-hour feed withdrawal, the chickens were slaughtered inclusively with veterinary officers overseeing inspections. Breast muscles were then wrapped in foil, labelled and cooked in a zip-loc bag at 78°C for 15 minutes in a water bath, with temperature monitored by a thermometer. After cooling samples were cut into uniform 1cm² cubes, coded, and presented to panelists for evaluation in equipped individual booths. Data was analyzed using SPSS v26, with qualitative narratives thematically examined. Results showed significant sensory differences in broiler meat characteristics such as colour and texture across dietary treatments. The findings showed a high overall satisfaction with BSF fed chickens by panelists who highlighted positive attributes like improved taste and overall eating experience. Among producers, 85% did not view protein substitution as problematic, while 73% preferred BSFL-fed poultry, citing cost-effectiveness and natural production. On the consumer side, 93% were open to eating meat produced using technology, with 73% emphasizing taste as a key determinant of acceptability. The findings suggest strong potential for BSFL integration into poultry production, with positive implications for food security, sustainable agriculture, and circular sanitation economies in Kenya. The study recommended the need for awareness to poultry consumers and producers to encourage adoption of BSFL-based feeds. The study also recommended exploration of new marketing strategies and distribution channels to expand the market for the products. | en_US |
