Method for extraction of chitin and its transformation to chitosan from black soldier fly exuviae

Abstract

Disclosed in the present invention is a method for the efficient extraction of high-purity a-chitinand its subsequent transformation into chitosan from black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) pupal exuviae (puparia). The method emphasizes a sustainable, chemical, or biological hybrid approach to remove proteins, minerals, and pigments to produce high-value chitosan. The method includes producing insect-based chitin and chitosan of interest by (a) cultivating Black soldier fly pupae exuviae using a consortium of bacteria wherein (i) green technology practices are observed (ii) sustainability is guaranteed, (iii) alcohol as a fermentation by-product (ethanol) is obtained, (iv) approximately 10 % of chitosan transformed from chitin, and (b) characterization of the chitosanbio-polymer achieved