BMC Nutrition (Apr 2020)

Evaluating the nutritional content of an insect-fortified food for the child complementary diet in Ghana

  • Megan E. Parker,
  • Stephanie Zobrist,
  • Herman E. Lutterodt,
  • Cyril R. Asiedu,
  • Chantal Donahue,
  • Connor Edick,
  • Kimberly Mansen,
  • Gretel Pelto,
  • Peiman Milani,
  • Shobhita Soor,
  • Amos Laar,
  • Cyril M. Engmann

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s40795-020-0331-6
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 6, no. 1
pp. 1 – 11

Abstract

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Abstract Background Due to rising food insecurity, natural resource scarcity, population growth, and the cost of and demand for animal proteins, insects as food have emerged as a relevant topic. This study examines the nutrient content of the palm weevil larva (Rhynchophorus phoenicis), a traditionally consumed edible insect called akokono in Ghana, and assesses its potential as an animal-source, complementary food. Methods Akokono in two “unmixed” forms (raw, roasted) and one “mixed” form (akokono-groundnut paste) were evaluated for their macronutrient, micronutrient, amino acid, and fatty acid profiles. Results Nutrient analyses revealed that a 32 g (2 tbsp.) serving of akokono-groundnut paste, compared to recommended daily allowances or adequate intakes (infant 7–12 months; child 1–3 years), is a rich source of protein (99%; 84%), minerals [copper (102%; 66%), magnesium (54%; 51%), zinc (37%; 37%)], B-vitamins [niacin (63%; 42%), riboflavin (26%; 20%), folate (40%; 21%)], Vitamin E (a-tocopherol) (440%; 366%), and linoleic acid (165%; 108%). Feed experiments indicated that substituting palm pith, the typical larval diet, for pito mash, a local beer production by-product, increased the carbohydrate, potassium, calcium, sodium, and zinc content of raw akokono. Akokono-groundnut paste meets (within 10%) or exceeds the levels of essential amino acids specified by the Institute of Medicine criteria for animal-source foods, except for lysine. Conclusions Pairing akokono with other local foods (e.g., potatoes, soybeans) can enhance its lysine content and create a more complete dietary amino acid profile. The promotion of akokono as a complementary food could play an important role in nutrition interventions targeting children in Ghana.

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