Utilization of black soldier fly larvae in organic waste management: Potential for antimicrobial and wound-healing applications

Abstract

Background: Organic waste management is a growing global challenge, particularly in urban areas with high waste generation and inefficient disposal systems. Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae provide a promising sustainable solution by converting organic waste into valuable products. This study reviews their potential applications in waste management, agriculture, wound healing, and circular economy practices. Methods: This study employed a literature review by analyzing recent research from peer-reviewed journals, institutional reports, and government publications. The review focused on black soldier fly larvae bioconversion, nutrient composition, antimicrobial properties, wound-healing potential, and larval frass applications. Findings were qualitatively synthesized and compared across different organic waste types and applications. Findings: The reviewed studies indicate that black soldier fly larvae can reduce organic waste volume by more than 50% within several days under suitable conditions. Larval biomass provides protein-rich material with potential for animal feed, while larval frass can improve soil fertility. Larval oils and extracts also demonstrate promising antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. These applications support resource recovery and reduce the environmental impacts associated with organic waste disposal. Conclusion: Black soldier fly larvae offer a multifunctional and environmentally sustainable approach to organic waste management, with additional benefits for agriculture and biomedical applications. Their ability to convert waste into valuable products supports circular economy principles and sustainable resource utilization. Novelty/Originality of this article: This article integrates the waste-management, agricultural, biomedical, and circular economy applications of black soldier fly larvae within a unified review. By linking organic waste bioconversion with antimicrobial and wound-healing potential, it provides a broader perspective on their role in developing sustainable, resource-efficient, and value-generating systems.