New insights into the organic waste-derived black soldier fly chitin and chitosan for biomedical and industrial applications

Insects are a promising group of animals for value-added biorefining products. Among other insects, the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Hermetia illucens has gained more attention for extracting chitin and chitosan. Chitin is a natural polysaccharide well-known for its structural integrity and biocompatibility. The outer shell or exoskeletons of insects are made up of chitin, a linear polymer of N-acetylglucosamine that provides mechanical support. The BSF H. illucens serve as a best alternative source for extracting natural biopolymer chitin and chitosan. Despite their potential, no comprehensive review of BSF-derived chitin and chitosan has been published. This review aims to provide an extensive overview of recent updates on the possible applicability of BSF chitin and chitosan for biomedical and industrial applications. Special attention is given to the BSF’s biology, extraction procedures, physicochemical characterization and their biomedical applications such as antioxidant, antibacterial, wound healing properties and their various industrial claims. Furthermore, limitations, challenges, and future recommendations on extracting chitin and chitosan from BSF were also discussed. Overall, this review highlights the potential role of BSF derived chitin and chitosan in various industrial platforms.