Imby Insect-Based
Dog Food
A complete gastrointestinal elimination diet based on dehydrated insect (33%), scientifically substantiated for use in dogs with suspected Adverse Food Reaction (AFR).
Complete & Balanced Nutrition
FEDIAF-compliant complete dietary food for dogs
Ingredient composition
Imby is a gastrointestinal dietary formula complying with FEDIAF standards for complete nutrition for dogs. The primary protein source — dehydrated insect (BSFL) — replaces traditional animal proteins without compromising nutritional completeness.
| Ingredient | Amount | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Dehydrated insect (H. illucens) Primary protein | 33% | Essential amino acids, fatty acids, chitin |
| Dehydrated potato & potato starch | — | Digestible carbohydrate source (single carb) |
| Dehydrated peas & pea protein | — | Complementary protein source |
| Sweet potato | — | Complex carbohydrates, antioxidants |
| Cellulose & dehydrated beet pulp | — | Fermentable and non-fermentable fibre |
| Yeast | — | Beta-glucans, B vitamins, flavour |
| Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) | 0.7% | Prebiotic — promotes Bifidobacterium & Lactobacillus |
| Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) | 0.4% | Phycocyanin, antioxidants, omega-3 |
| Yucca Schidigera extract | 0.2% | Reduction of ammonia emission, gut health |
| Linseed | — | ALA (omega-3), fibre |
| Glucosamine | 200 mg/kg | Joint support |
| Chondroitin | 200 mg/kg | Joint support |
| Choline chloride, minerals | — | FEDIAF-compliant micronutrient supplementation |
Amino acid profile of BSFL
Black Soldier Fly larvae contain all essential amino acids required by dogs. Studies show that the essential amino acid content is preserved at inclusion levels up to 45%, with only a modest reduction in lysine and methionine (≤11%) that is easily compensated by supplementation.
Gałęcki et al., 2025 — Animals; Penazzi et al., 2021 — Front. Vet. Sci.Fatty acid profile
Insect inclusion improves the fatty acid profile: enriched with oleic acid, linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid. Higher inclusion levels improve the omega-6:omega-3 ratio from 8.0 to 5.4 — beneficial for skin and coat quality. Supplemented with linseed for additional ALA.
Gałęcki et al., 2025 — AnimalsSingle-ingredient diet for diagnostic purity
Imby uses potato as the sole carbohydrate source, maintaining a true 'limited ingredient' profile. This facilitates interpretation of elimination trial results, as cross-contamination with known allergens is minimised.
Digestibility: Comparable to Conventional Proteins
In vitro and in vivo evidence
In vivo & in vitro digestibility of BSFL-extruded dog food
Six adult dogs, Latin square design. BSF larvae vs. venison meal as primary protein source in isonitrogenous, iso-energetic dry food formulas.
Digestion, faecal microbiome & blood parameters in dogs fed BSFL meal
18 Golden Retrievers, extruded food with 0%, 7.5% and 15% BSFL replacing chicken meal. In vivo + in vitro digestion, microbiome analysis, blood variables.
In vitro crude protein digestibility of insects: a review
Systematic review of in vitro protein digestibility methods for edible insects, including H. illucens and T. molitor. Comparison of oral, gastric and intestinal phases with multiple enzyme protocols.
Chitin: influence on digestibility
Chitin in the insect wall can influence protein digestibility. Dehydrated and extruded processing (as in Imby) partially breaks down the chitin matrix and improves digestibility of the enclosed proteins — explaining why extrusion-optimised formulas achieve higher values than raw insect powder.
At the same time, undigested chitin acts as a prebiotic fibre: a dual benefit.
Novel Protein & Hypoallergenic Potential
Mechanism, evidence and clinical caveats
Working mechanism: true novel protein logic
Insect-based nutrition works primarily as a novel protein: dogs that have never been exposed to insect protein have no pre-existing IgE sensitisation or T-cell memory response against insect proteins. This makes insect protein functionally comparable to other novel proteins (kangaroo, ostrich, etc.) — with the added advantage that the pool of dogs that has 'exhausted' insect as a novel protein is still minimal today.
Unlike hydrolysed diets, which work by lowering the IgE recognition threshold, Imby eliminates the allergenic protein in principle — provided the dog is truly naive to insect proteins.
Clinical application of insect-based diet in canine allergic dermatitis
19 atopic dogs with concurrent cutaneous AFR. Treatment group (n=7): insect-based diet vs. salmon (n=6) vs. commercial food (n=6). Follow-up 12 weeks, evaluation every 4 weeks.
Impact of insect-based dry food in a dog with food allergy — case study
Controlled single-case crossover design: BSFL diet 12 days, then provocation with chicken product 10 days, then BSFL restart as counter-proof.
Imby vs. hydrolysed diets: when to choose which?
Choose insect (Imby) when: insect is truly novel for the dog, or when multiple classic novel proteins have already been tried.
Choose hydrolysed when: the dietary history is complex with many already-tried proteins, or a highly standardised diagnostic approach is desired. Both approaches are complementary — after a failed hydrolysed trial, insect is a rational next step.
Clinical caveat: cross-reactivity in mite-sensitised dogs
In dogs with documented sensitisation to house dust mites (Dermatophagoides spp.), storage mites or crustaceans, there is a risk of immunological cross-reactivity with insect proteins via tropomyosin — a highly conserved muscle protein across arthropods.
- Most relevant in dogs with documented mite allergy and positive IgE reactions to crustaceans Mechanism: cross-reactive tropomyosin can recognise insect proteins via existing T-cell or IgE memory response Recommendation: consider atopy workup before insect diet in strongly atopic patients with a suspected environmental allergen component
Additional Health Benefits
Beyond basic nutrition: functional components with clinical relevance
Gut Health & Microbiome
Chitin from insect walls acts as a prebiotic fibre: it ferments in the large intestine and stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium). Studies in dogs show increased relative abundance of Phascolarctobacterium and Collinsella, associated with healthy intestinal fermentation.
Supplemented with FOS (0.7%) and yucca extract for further prebiotic and anti-ammonia activity.
Kara et al., 2025; Kipkoech, 2023 — PolysaccharidesSkin & Coat
Insect-based nutrition improves skin barrier function through multiple pathways: reduction of TEWL (transepidermal water loss), reduction of CADESI-4 skin score and normalisation of inflammatory markers. The improved omega-6:omega-3 ratio contributes to skin hydration and elasticity.
Spirulina (0.4%) adds additional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory active compounds (C-phycocyanin).
Lee et al., 2021; Gałęcki et al., 2025Joint Support
Imby contains glucosamine (200 mg/kg) and chondroitin (200 mg/kg), the best-evidenced supplements for maintaining joint cartilage. This makes the food particularly suitable for dogs where AFR and joint issues coincide, without the need for extra supplementation.
Product formula; Johnston et al., JAVMAGastrointestinal Tolerance
In the clinical elimination trial (Imby protocol), no episodes of vomiting or food refusal were documented with correct transition. The combination of digestible carbohydrates (potato), beet pulp and cellulose ensures stable stool quality (score 2-3 on 5-point scale) during and after transition.
Imby Elimination Trial Protocol; Cesar et al., 2024Anti-inflammatory Potential
Insect fat contains lauric acid (C12:0) with antimicrobial and potentially anti-inflammatory properties. Spirulina provides C-phycocyanin, a potent antioxidant with reported NF-κB inhibition in animal studies. Linseed contributes ALA as an omega-3 precursor for EPA/DHA synthesis.
Schiavone et al., 2019; Klinmalai et al., 2025Sustainability
BSFL farming produces 2-5× fewer greenhouse gases than traditional animal protein production. Insects can grow on food by-products (circular economy), have a minimal land footprint and require significantly less water — an ecological argument without compromising quality.
Schaap, 2021; Gałęcki et al., 2025Palatability: Scientifically & Clinically Confirmed
One of the most frequently asked questions by veterinarians
Evidence for palatability
In the Kara et al. (2025) study, Golden Retrievers were offered an explicit preference test between BSFL food and standard chicken meal food. The BSFL variants were well accepted, with no signs of food refusal.
In the Imby elimination trial protocol, the owner guidelines state: 'if the dog doesn't eat for more than 24 hours, contact the practice' — a measure that has rarely been needed in practice. Moistening with warm water (soaking 10 minutes) improves acceptance in reluctant dogs.
Kara et al., 2025; Imby Owner LeafletYeast as a flavour enhancer
The inclusion of yeast in the formula serves a dual role: yeast provides B vitamins and beta-glucans, but also acts as a natural flavour enhancer via the presence of glutamates and nucleotides (umami taste components).
This is particularly relevant for dogs switching from strongly flavoured commercial food: yeast mitigates the 'flat flavour' that characterises some elimination diets and increases the chance of successful transition.
Yeast formulation principles in petfood; Siddiqui et al., 2023Transition guidance for your patients
Days 1–3: Transition phase
75% existing food + 25% Imby. Observe stool quality and eating behaviour. Moistening with lukewarm water is permitted (no stock, no oil or toppings that would invalidate the elimination trial).
Days 4–5: Intermediate period
50/50 mix. Most dogs accept Imby without problems in this phase. Food refusal >24h: add warm water; if persistent, contact the practice.
Day 6+: Full transition
100% Imby. Use a portion of the daily amount as a reward treat during the trial — this maintains compliance and avoids flavour enhancers that could disrupt the elimination trial.
Owner acceptance: practical insights
Research shows that insect-based pet food is increasingly widely accepted by owners when the focus is on the health benefits for their animal and the sustainability gain.
Owners informed by their veterinarian about the scientific basis show significantly higher compliance than owners who discover the product themselves. Your recommendation makes the difference.
Imby Elimination Trial: Clinical Protocol
Prospective, multicentre, open-label single-arm study — 6–8 weeks
Inclusion criteria
- ✓ Dog ≥12 months, client-owned
- ✓ Clinical suspicion of AFR: GI symptoms ≥3 weeks (diarrhoea, vomiting, flatulence) and/or non-seasonal pruritus/otitis
- ✓ PVAS ≥3/10 or CADESI-4 ≥30 at baseline
- ✓ Adequate ectoparasite control ≥4 weeks before inclusion (isoxazoline or equivalent)
- ✓ Owner willing to provide exclusively test food
- ✓ Signed informed consent + GDPR
Exclusion criteria
- ✗ Serious or unstable systemic disease (liver/kidney)
- ✗ Immunosuppressants, antibiotics or change of anti-pruritic medication <2 weeks before baseline
- ✗ Puppies <12 months, pregnant or lactating bitches
- ✗ Insect-based food or insect protein supplement <3 months prior
- ✗ Confirmed hypersensitivity to mites/crustaceans with expected cross-reactivity risk
- ✗ Need for conflicting therapeutic diet (e.g. strict renal diet)
Visit schedule & outcome measures
Screening & Baseline
In-/exclusion check, history taking, flea control, weight/BCS, baseline PVAS + CADESI-4, start transition. Distribution of food + owner instructions.
Early evaluation
Compliance check, AE screening, week-2 scores (stool, PVAS). Stop/escape possible if worsening.
Interim check
Compliance, AE, brief clinical update. No full scoring required.
Final visit (primary evaluation)
Primary outcome: PVAS change baseline → final visit. Secondary: stool score, CADESI-4/CADLI, Owner Global Assessment (OGA). Responder definition: final score 2-3 with improvement ≥1 point stool; ≥50% PVAS reduction. Optional extension to week 8 if insufficient response.
When to Recommend Imby?
Clinical indications, alternatives and practical guidelines
Primary indications
- ✓ AFR elimination diet (1st choice novel protein) in dogs without prior insect exposure
- ✓ Chronic gastrointestinal complaints (IBD-like, SIBO suspicion) with food trigger
- ✓ Recurrent otitis externa with food allergy component
- ✓ Non-seasonal pruritus/atopic dermatitis where CAFR needs to be excluded
- ✓ Dogs where classic novel proteins are 'exhausted' (kangaroo, duck, etc.)
- ✓ Combination skin issues + joint issues (glucosamine/chondroitin included)
Caution / reconsider
- ✗ Strongly atopic dogs with confirmed mite sensitisation + crustacean reaction (tropomyosin cross-reactivity)
- ✗ Dogs that have already received insect protein supplements or insect-based food (<3 months)
- ✗ Renal insufficiency where phosphorus reduction is a priority (different diet formula needed)
- ✗ Pregnant or lactating bitches (insufficient specific data for this life stage)
Practical tips for your practice
Strictly prohibited during the elimination trial:
- Other kibble or wet food Treats, chews, biscuits, table scraps Dental sticks with unknown ingredients Supplements with animal proteins (e.g. fish oil capsules with gelatine) Flavoured medication ('beef flavour') without prior consultation
Treats during the trial:
- Use a portion of the daily Imby amount as a treat Slightly moisten kibble with warm water = higher palatability Do not add stock, oil or extra toppings
Monitoring during the trial:
- Keep stool score record (5-point scale) PVAS at every visit Maintain AE log for study documentation
Peer-Reviewed References
Scientific substantiation of all claims on this page
- Penazzi L, Schiavone A, Russo N, et al. In vivo and in vitro digestibility of an extruded complete dog food containing Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal as protein source. Frontiers in Veterinary Science. 2021;8:653411. doi:10.3389/fvets.2021.653411
- Lee KI, Chae Y, Yun T, et al. Clinical application of insect-based diet in canine allergic dermatitis. Korean Journal of Veterinary Research. 2021;61(4):e36. doi:10.14405/kjvr.2021.61.e36
- Kara K, Kahraman O, İnal F, et al. Digestion, faeces microbiome, and selected blood parameters in dogs fed extruded food containing Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) meal. Italian Journal of Animal Science. 2025;24(1):466-483. doi:10.1080/1828051X.2025.2456682
- Rodríguez-Rodríguez M, Barroso FG, Fabrikov D, Sánchez-Muros MJ. In vitro crude protein digestibility of insects: a review. Insects. 2022;13(8):682. doi:10.3390/insects13080682
- Gałęcki R, Pszczółkowski B, Zielonka Ł. Experiences in formulating insect-based feeds: selected physicochemical properties of dog food containing yellow mealworm meal. Animals. 2025;15(14):2087. doi:10.3390/ani15142087
- Kipkoech C. Beyond proteins — edible insects as a source of dietary fibre. Polysaccharides. 2023;4(2):116-128. doi:10.3390/polysaccharides4020009
- Scala E, Abeni-Villa L, Abeni M, et al. Insect protein-based diet as potential risk of allergy in dogs. Veterinary Sciences. 2021. [Pubmed-indexed]
- Delfino D, et al. Tropomyosin-mediated cross-reactivity between storage mites and insect proteins in dogs with atopic dermatitis. 2024. [Peer-reviewed journal article]
- Pinney J, Costa-Font M. A model for consumer acceptance of insect-based dog foods among adult UK dog owners. Animals. 2024;14(7):1021. doi:10.3390/ani14071021
- Klinmalai P, et al. Comprehensive review of alternative proteins in pet food: research publications, patents, and product trends. Foods. 2025;14(15):2640. doi:10.3390/foods14152640
- Schaap M. The use of insects in pet food. 2021. [Review article]
- Siddiqui SA, Brunner TA, Tamm I, et al. Insect-based dog and cat food: a short investigative review on market, claims and consumer perception. Journal of Asia-Pacific Entomology. 2023;26(1):102020. doi:10.1016/j.aspen.2022.102020
- Olivry T, Bizikova P. A systematic review of the evidence of reduced allergenicity and clinical benefit of food hydrolysates in dogs with cutaneous adverse food reactions. Veterinary Dermatology. 2010. doi:10.1111/j.1365-3164.2009.00761.x
- Cesar F, et al. An assessment of the impact of insect meal in dry food on a dog with a food allergy. 2024. [Case report — peer-reviewed]
- Imby Elimination Trial Protocol — Curafyt BV, 2024–2025. Internal study protocol, multicentre, prospective, open-label design.