INOVAÇÃO DE PRODUTO ALIMENTAR VETERINÁRIO A BASE DE TENEBRIO MOLITOR

Abstract

The Tenebrio molitor insect, popularly known as mealworm, has been researched for its use as a component in veterinary pharmaceutical products, such as food and cosmetics. This interest is due to the high sustainability, practicality and low emission of polluting gases associated with its breeding and processing. The objective of this project is to develop an innovative veterinary cosmetic product, in the form of a creamy O/W emulsion, intended for use in dogs, with the active ingredient being derivatives of the Tenebrio molitor insect. The cosmetic product developed has suitable physical and chemical characteristics, such as texture, viscosity and odor. In addition, the product contains natural ingredients with beneficial properties for the skin, highlighting Tenebrio molitor oil, which is rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids, with healing and moisturizing action, especially indicated for the treatment of dog paw pads. The veterinary cosmetic product developed in this project represents an innovation that can contribute to environmental and economic sustainability, as well as to improving the quality of life of dogs, who often suffer injuries as a result of their active lifestyle.