ICAR-National Meat Research Institute (NMRI) has partnered with the Central Silk Board's Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSRTI), Mysuru, to explore silkworm pupae as a viable food source. This collaboration is formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed by D.S.B. Barbuddhe, Director of ICAR-NMRI, and Dr. S. Gandhi Doss, Director of CSRTI, Mysuru.
The project, titled ‘Optimization of Preservation Techniques and Quality Assessment of Mulberry and Eri Silkworm Pupae for Human Consumption,’ aims to enhance preservation methods and assess the nutritional quality of silkworm pupae. Given the rising global demand for alternative and sustainable protein sources, silkworm pupae, which are rich in protein and essential fatty acids, could serve as a promising option.
While traditionally consumed in northeastern India, the project will also study consumer acceptance in these regions. It will focus on developing effective preservation techniques to maintain the pupae's nutritional value, texture, and sensory properties. Comprehensive quality assessments will provide the necessary data to support regulatory approval for safe consumption.
This research initiative not only has the potential to diversify protein sources in human diets but also addresses food security and environmental challenges. The MoU aims to facilitate commercialization, setting standardized protocols to ensure the consistency of quality and safety in the production of silkworm pupae-based foods.
This project could lead to the inclusion of silkworm pupae as an innovative and sustainable protein option for human consumption by leveraging scientific research and data-driven quality assessments.
