Australian scientists genetically engineer common fly species to eat more of humanity’s waste

Black soldier flies could help cut planet-warming methane produced when organic waste breaks down, Macquarie University team says

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A team of Australian scientists is genetically engineering a common fly species so that it can eat more of humanity's organic waste while producing ingredients for making everything from lubricants and biofuels to high-grade animal feeds.

Black soldier flies are already being used commercially to consume organic waste, including food waste, but tweaking their genetics could widen the range of waste their larvae consume while, in the process, producing fatty compounds and enzymes.

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