The transformation process of silkworm chrysalis is as follows:

After about 4 days after the silkworm spins a cocoon on the cocoon, it will turn into a pupa. The body shape of silkworm chrysalis is like a spindle, divided into three body segments: head, chest and abdomen. The head is very small, with compound eyes and antennae; the chest is equipped with thoracic legs and wings; the bulging abdomen has 9 body segments.

Professional workers can distinguish males and females from the lines and brown dots on the abdomen of silkworm chrysalises. When silkworms just pupate, their body color is light yellow, and the pupa body is tender and soft. Gradually, it turns yellow, tan or brown, and the pupa skin becomes hard.

Silkworm pupae are rich in protein, fat, vitamins A, B2, D and ergosterol. Protein hydrolyzate products include arginine, lysine, histidine, cystine, tryptophan, tyrosine, threonine, and methionine. Fat contains saturated fatty acids (palmitic acid, stearic acid), unsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid, linoleic acid) and sterols.

Extended information

Unsaturated fatty acids account for 70.9% of the fat in silkworm chrysalises, of which α-linolenic acid is the majority, which has good anti-inflammatory and anti-infective effects, and is also good for lowering blood pressure, It is beneficial for lowering blood lipids and improving immunity. Silkworm chrysalis is also very rich in trace elements and is a food high in calcium and magnesium.

Its calcium content is 76 times that of beef and 32 times that of eggs, which can strengthen muscles and bones; its magnesium content is 4 times that of beef and 12 times that of eggs. In addition, silkworm chrysalis is also rich in vitamins and active substances such as ergosterol.