The laying hen farming industry in Indonesia continues to experience rapid growth; by mid-2025, national production had reached 6,52 million tons. High demand for animal protein has made this sector increasingly attractive to everyone from young farmers to agribusiness investors. However, alongside these significant opportunities, serious challenges have emerged, specifically, chicken manure waste causing air and water pollution, as well as public health risks stemming from ammonia and hydrogen sulfide gases released during decomposition.
To address this issue, the UGM PKM-K Fermaze team has introduced an innovative solution: an organic feed supplement for laying hens called Fermaze. The team comprises Renata Satriatama Ranukumbolo (Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, 2023), Najwa Ramadhani (Faculty of Agricultural Technology, 2023), Dimas Landung Ghofaro (Faculty of Animal Science, 2023), Afifah Diaz Restu Mawarni (Faculty of Animal Science, 2023), and Armedina Radine (Vocational College, 2024), with faculty advisor Ir. Galuh Adi Insani, S.Pt., M.Sc., IPM, from the UGM Faculty of Animal Science.
Fermaze is developed using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, which are capable of breaking down chicken manure. This process not only reduces pollution but also optimizes nutrients that can be reabsorbed by the chickens. Furthermore, BSF larvae serve as a high-quality protein source, thereby preventing nutritional deficiencies in laying hens.
Additionally, Fermaze is formulated with added bone meal as a source of calcium, a mineral essential for eggshell formation. Since eggshells are composed of 94% calcium, this nutrient is crucial for ensuring that eggs do not have thin, brittle, or defective shells.
“Fermaze is not merely an alternative feed supplement; it represents a tangible example of a sustainable farming ecosystem. We aim to transform waste into a valuable new resource, thereby lowering production costs, protecting the environment, and strengthening the competitiveness of small-scale farmers,” said Tama, leader of the UGM Fermaze team, on Monday ().
Original article: https://fapet.ugm.ac.id/fermaze-inovasi-mahasiswa-ugm-ubah-limbah-ayam-jadi-suplemen-pakan-bernutrisi/
Translated by: Sarah Suminar