Blog Post #2: BSFL vs. Crickets — What’s the Best Insect Feed for Your Reptile?

If you’ve been feeding your reptile crickets for years, you’re not alone. Crickets have been the go-to feeder insect for decades. But a new contender is quickly rising to the top: Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL). Here’s how these two popular feeders stack up — and why more reptile owners in Utah are making the switch.

1. Nutrition Face-Off
   Crickets: Low in calcium, often require dusting with calcium or vitamin powder. Moderate protein content but poor calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.
   BSFL: Naturally high in calcium with a near-perfect calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. Great source of protein, fat, and essential nutrients. No dusting needed. 
   Winner: BSFL. Better nutrition, less hassle.
2. Cleanliness and Odor
   Crickets: Known for their strong odor and noisy chirping. Easily escape and infest homes. BSFL: Odorless when stored properly, silent, and contained. No risk of infestation.
   Winner: BSFL. Clean and quiet.
   
3. Ease of Use
   Crickets: Require regular maintenance, food, and water. Can jump out of containers and get lost. BSFL: Store in a cool, dry container. No feeding necessary. Simply scoop and feed.
   Winner: BSFL. Minimal effort.
   
4. Cost and Waste
   Crickets: Often die quickly in storage. You may pay for 100 but only use 60-70. BSFL: Longer shelf life. Almost all are usable. Less waste, better value.
   Winner: BSFL. More value per dollar.
5. Local Availability
   Healthy Critters offers affordable delivery of BSFL to homes in Davis and Weber Counties.
   No need to drive to the store or pay high interstate shipping fees.
   The Verdict: BSFL Are the Better Feed

For pet reptiles, BSFL provide better nutrition, less mess, and more convenience — all with local delivery and competitive pricing. Whether you're new to reptile care or a seasoned herp enthusiast, switching to BSFL could be the best thing you do for your pet.