REVIEW PAPER
Overview of Catopsilia pomona: Life cycle, nutrition, and development prospects for exploitation in food
 
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Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
 
 
Submission date: 2025-09-27
 
 
Final revision date: 2026-01-19
 
 
Acceptance date: 2026-01-25
 
 
Online publication date: 2026-03-17
 
 
Corresponding author
Le Pham Tan Quoc   

Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
 
 
 
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ABSTRACT
Catopsilia pomona is a butterfly of the family Pieridae, widely distributed in many tropical and subtropical regions. With typical life cycle characteristics from egg, larva, pupa to adult, this species has been interested in many fields of research, from basic biology to practical applications. Recent studies have shown that C. pomona pupae contain significant nutritional content, particularly protein, lipids, and minerals, suggesting their potential as a valuable alternative food source. In addition, the traditional use experience of local communities demonstrates the species’ wide applicability in cuisine. This article aims to review the morphological, biological, physiological, nutritional, and digestive enzyme characteristics of C. pomona, analyze its potential applications in food, and provide a scientific basis for the sustainable exploitation of this insect resource.
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