Consumption pattern and acceptability of winged termites (Macroterme bellicosus)-enriched infant complementary foods in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Lack of quality and diversity in complementary foods adversely affect infant and young child's growth and nutritional status. Due to poverty, animal-source foods are not readily available in many rural parts of Nigeria. Winged termites (Macroterme bellicosus) had been reported to be rich in essential nutrients and could be suitable alternative to animal source-foods in complementary feeding when available. This study was designed to investigate the consumption pattern of the insect and acceptability of its use in complementary foods. Using a validated, semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire, 700 respondents of different age groups and socio-demographic status were recruited for consumption study in 5 Local Government Areas of Ekiti State. Four sets of commonly used complementary foods (Maize and Sorghum pap, boiled rice and yam) were enriched with Macroterme bellicosus (MB) by adding ground MB to them separately in the ratio 4:1 (w/w). The macro-and micronutrient content of the blends were determined using standard AOAC methods. Maternal acceptability of the enriched foods was evaluated among sixty untrained nursing mothers on a seven-point hedonic scale. Consumption of MB was dependent on its availability during the rainy season; and is consumed fresh or fried with or without seasoning. Most (95.4%) respondents had never experienced any negative side effect(s) on consumption of the insect. Addition of MB significantly improved the nutrient and energy content of the complementary foods. Sorghum pap enriched with MB had the best score in all the parameters assessed. The four enriched complementary foods were acceptable to the mothers, hence improving the nutrient content of complementary foods with Marcroterme bellicosus should be encouraged.