The chemical and ammo acid composition of the compost worm Eisenia fetida as potential protein source in animal feeds

Abstract

There is an increasing demand for protein rich materials in the animal feed industry in South Africa. Intensive cattle husbandry as well as abattoirs are producing large quantities of organic waste, the protein content of which is not utilized. The compost worm, Eisenia fetida, can be reared in large numbers on this waste. This opens up the possibility to recover waste protein if E. fetida could be used as a protein source in animal feeds. The value of the protein was therefore researched by determining the general chemical composition and amino acid composition. The earthworm meal contained all the essential amino acids required in poultry feeds, in favourable ratios. The methionine and lysine availability was higher than that of fish meal.