Nutritional composition of three edible caterpillars in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

The role of edible caterpillars in human nutrition is increasingly undeniable, given their contribution to food security, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. However, some local species are almost unknown and the lack of data on their nutritional composition limits the integration of consumption in consumer diets. This article therefore focuses on the nutritional profiles of three edible caterpillar species from DR-Congo: Aegocera rectilinea, Epidonta sp and Imbrasia truncata. Data on protein content and amino acid profiles were discussed, with particular emphasis on threonine, lysine, methionine, cysteine and histidine; fat content and fatty acid profiles were examined, with particular attention to omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids and the PUFA/SFA ratio; Finally a discussion of essential minerals in insects, with particular emphasis on Fe and Zn, as well as anti-nutritional factors such as phytic acid, oxalates and tannins, which may have a negative effect on the bioavailability of these trace elements were discussed. The results of this study should induce a change in behavior in terms of the valorization of these edible insects as food in DR-Congo, via their popularization through workshops carried out in their production and consumption areas, while encouraging rational harvesting practices with a view to their sustainable use.