Acta Universitatis Cibiniensis. Series E: Food Technology (Dec 2022)

Safety Assessment of Locusta migratoria Powder Enriched Peanut-Based Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF)

  • Akande Olamide Abigael,
  • Jolayemi Olusola Samuel,
  • Oluwamukomi Matthew Olusola,
  • Osundahunsi Oluwatooyin Faramade,
  • Ijarotimi Oluwole Steve,
  • Alagbe Elizabeth,
  • Ibitoye Damilola

DOI
https://doi.org/10.2478/aucft-2022-0016
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 26, no. 2
pp. 195 – 208

Abstract

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Migratory locust has been widely reported as a quality protein source. However, there are food safety problems related with the usage of insects as food. In this study, migratory locust powder (MLP) was used as a protein supply alternative to milk powder (MP) in peanut-based RUTFs. Seven formulations were obtained at different substitution levels (0 – 30%) of MP with MLP. Pesticide residues, aflatoxins, triazine and toxic metals were analysed using a GC-MS system and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Formulation with 30% MLP and without milk have the highest level of organochlorine (3.22 µg/kg), organophosphorus (0.40-4.56µg/kg) amongst others. Aflatoxins of the therapeutic foods increased with increasing levels of MLP. The heavy metals, melamine, and cyanuric acid of the RUTFs were below the standard permissible limits. Migratory locust powder could be used as an alternate protein source in the formulation of peanut based RUTFs without posing health threat.

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