Imbrasia obscura, an Edible Caterpillar of Tropical Africa: Chemical Composition and Nutritional Value

Abstract

The consumption of Imbrasia obscura (Butler, 1878) has been quoted in a dozen books and papers in five different countries, namely Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola. This study presents, for the first time, information concerning two unknown subjects, the chemical composition and the nutritional value of the species. The chemical composition shows that it is a good source of proteins and lipids with the presence of five essential amino-acids (threonine, tyrosine + phenylalanine, histidine and tryptophan) and important amounts of essential fatty acids. The mineral elements such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium are also present in good amounts. There is little sodium for which human consumption is frequently but not always excessive. The very high proportion of alpha-linolenic acid contributes very significantly to the low ω-6/ω-3 ratio. Consequently, this caterpillar is a food that may be recommended for human consumption. Farming this species should be encouraged because of its high nutritional value and its good commercial potential especially in areas where malnutrition is common.

Keywords

• Imbrasia obscura
• Edible caterpillar
• Chemical composition
• Nutritional value
• Tropical Africa