If you keep chickens, you've probably heard about black soldier fly larvae as a nutritional supplement. I LOVE WORMS Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae in the 10lb size is one option available for small-scale and hobby farmers. Before deciding whether this product fits your needs, it helps to understand what these larvae are, what they offer your flock, and how to use them properly.

What Are Black Soldier Fly Larvae and Why Feed Them to Chickens?

Black soldier fly larvae, often abbreviated as BSFL, are the larval stage of a non-biting fly species. They've become popular in poultry care because they're high in protein—the product contains over 41% protein—and offer nutritional benefits beyond typical grain-based feeds. Unlike some chicken treats, black soldier fly larvae provide calcium in significant quantities, which is particularly valuable for laying hens who need extra calcium for egg production and shell quality.

The I LOVE WORMS product is raised on human food waste without additives or preservatives, which appeals to owners seeking natural feed options for their animals. The larvae are also suitable for feeding to other animals beyond chickens, including ducks, wild birds, fish, turtles, hamsters, and hedgehogs, so a single purchase can serve multiple purposes on a homestead.

Understanding the 10lb Package Size

The I LOVE WORMS dried black soldier fly larvae comes in a 10lb package, which represents a significant quantity depending on your flock size and feeding approach. These are dried larvae, not fresh, which means they're lightweight and shelf-stable. A 10lb bag takes up a modest amount of physical space—the package dimensions are approximately 17.3 x 13.2 x 7.7 inches—making storage straightforward for most people.

The key question is whether 10lb suits your needs. For a backyard flock of five to ten chickens, offering black soldier fly larvae as an occasional treat rather than a primary feed, a 10lb bag provides several months of supplementation. If you're planning to use them as a significant portion of your feed ration or have a larger flock, you might find yourself reordering frequently. Conversely, if you're uncertain whether your chickens will accept them or you want to try them before committing to larger quantities, 10lb is a reasonable starting point.

Nutritional Content and What It Means for Your Flock

The standout nutritional claim is the calcium content: the product contains at least 85 times more calcium than dried mealworms, another popular chicken treat. This matters significantly for laying hens, who require extra calcium to produce strong eggshells and maintain bone health. If your hens are experiencing soft-shelled or thin-shelled eggs, adding a calcium-rich treat like black soldier fly larvae may help.

With over 41% protein, these larvae also support muscle development, feather growth, and overall body condition. The combination of high protein and high calcium makes them particularly suited to supporting laying hens through their productive years.

Storage and Shelf Life

I LOVE WORMS specifies a 24-month shelf life for their dried black soldier fly larvae. To maintain this longevity, store the product in a dry place away from moisture. Once opened, keep the bag sealed between uses or transfer the contents to an airtight container. Humidity is the main enemy of dried insect products; exposure to moisture can lead to mold or degradation. A pantry, garage, or shed works well for storage, provided it stays reasonably dry.

Check your storage conditions if you live in a very humid climate. Some people find that keeping a small silica gel packet in the storage container extends freshness further.

How to Use Black Soldier Fly Larvae in Your Feeding Program

Black soldier fly larvae work best as a supplement or treat rather than a complete replacement for standard chicken feed. Most owners scatter them by hand or in a container, watching their chickens eagerly peck them up. You can also mix them into regular feed or scatter them as a special treat during foraging time.

Start with modest amounts to see how your birds respond. Most chickens readily accept them, but individual preferences vary. A typical approach is offering a small handful per bird, several times per week, rather than daily feeding. This keeps them as a valuable supplement without displacing regular balanced feed.

The I LOVE WORMS product is certified safe by professional veterinarians and free of additives and preservatives, reducing concerns about introducing unknown substances to your flock.

The product in this guide: I LOVE WORMS Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae (10lb), 100% Natural Non-GMO, Treat for Chickens, More Calcium Chicken Feed Than Mealworms