A new study from the Federal University of Paraiba in Brazil has found that dogs fed a diet containing black soldier fly protein, known as ProteinX by Protix, showed improved skin barrier function and stronger antioxidant defences.
Published in the Archives of Animal Nutrition, the study involved eight healthy beagles fed ProteinX over 50 days, followed by a poultry-based control diet for another 50 days. The dogs experienced a measurable reduction in transepidermal water loss and an increase in skin hydration, both indicators of better skin barrier performance.
In addition to skin improvements, dogs also showed signs of enhanced antioxidant defence. Researchers recorded a trend towards lower levels of malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress, and higher levels of vitamin E in the blood, indicating improved protection against free radical damage.
No adverse effects were reported during the study, and the dogs consistently consumed the insect-based diet. The results suggest that ProteinX could be used in a variety of petfood formats, offering a functional ingredient for manufacturers developing products aimed at skin health and cellular protection.
Protix has made the full study available on its website.