Chitosan

The chitin from the outer shell of the larvae and adult Golden Flies is a base for the highest grade chitosan, a valuable resource for food industry, cosmetics, parapharmaceuticals, as well as pharmaceutical and medicinal use.


Chitosan is a biopolymer derived from chitin, which is found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans, such as shrimp and crabs and insects, such as BSF. It is a white, granular substance that is soluble in acidic environments but insoluble in neutral or alkaline solutions. Due to its unique properties, chitosan has a wide range of applications across various fields. Here are some of its primary uses:

1. Biomedical Applications

  • Drug Delivery:

    Chitosan can encapsulate drugs and facilitate their controlled release. Its biocompatibility makes it suitable for use in pharmaceuticals.

  • Wound Dressings:

    Owing to its antimicrobial properties, chitosan is often used in dressings to promote healing and prevent infections.

  • Tissue Engineering:

    Chitosan serves as scaffolding material for cell growth, aiding in the regeneration of tissues.

2. Food Industry

  • Preservative:

    Chitosan can be used to extend the shelf life of food products due to its antimicrobial properties.

  • Food Coating:

    It is used in edible coatings to prevent spoilage and reduce moisture loss.

  • Fat Binding:

    Chitosan is sometimes marketed as a dietary supplement to help in fat reduction and weight management.

3. Agriculture

  • Biopesticide:

    Chitosan can act as a natural pesticide, helping to control pests and diseases in crops.

  • Soil Conditioner:

    It improves soil quality and promotes plant growth by enhancing nutrient uptake.

4. Water Treatment

  • Chitosan is effective in removing heavy metals and other contaminants from water through coagulation and flocculation processes.

5. Cosmetics

  • Chitosan is added to cosmetic formulations for its moisturizing and film-forming properties, helping to enhance skin appearance.

6. Textile Industry

  • Used as a finishing agent for fabrics due to its antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent odors and degradation.

Chitosan's versatility across various industries is largely due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxicity. Its potential applications continue to expand as research progresses, making it an important material in both scientific and commercial realms.