NEW POSSIBILITIES OF USING MULBERRY SILKWORM FEED

In the countries where the silk industry is developed, white mulberry is one of the most important plants. Its leaves are the best food for the caterpillars of mulberry silkworm (Bombyx Mori L.). It is still not fully investigated why the silkworms prefer mulberry. However, it is certain that the protein substances produced in silkworm bodies in 70% come from mulberry leaves. These substances constitute one of the finest fibers - natural silk. Currently, mulberry is cultivated mainly in Asia, where sericulture maintains its high position. The fact that mulberry contributes not only to the formation on the silk but also can be used for other purposes has drawn attention of scientists to this plant. The exploitation of mulberry tree in Poland is limited to the life of silk in summers therefore new potential applications of this raw material are sought after. Literature reports confirm very rich composition of mulberry leaves in terms of bioactive substances. These compounds can be used in prevention of lifestyle diseases,. The paper presents the studies on the content of bioactive substances in the leaves of white mulberry and the potential of using the silkworm feedstock for humans.