The Analyses Of Amino Acid, Fatty Acid And Mineral In A Legume-Cereal Based Complementary Food Blend Used In Jos, Nigeria

Background: Inadequate nutrient intake is an important issue in Nigeria, where under nutrition is common among infants of weaning age and young children. The formulation of complementary foods using available/affordable staple food commodities is one approach that has been recommended to reduce malnutrition in children. This approach is achievable because the foods are intended to be prepared at household level. Various communities are endowed with staple foodstuff that can be utilized to formulate foods that are suitable to their settings. Where the food does not contain sufficient of any nutrient, especially the essential ones, correction may be needed. Objective: The study sought to know through analyses, the amino acid, fatty acid and mineral element composition of the composite blend of a legume-cereal complementary food (SBG-C), and to ascertain its potential in meeting the recommended daily nutrient intake of infants. Methods: Gas-Liquid chromatography, Reversed-Phase high performance liquid chromatography and atomic emission spectrophotometer were used to determine fatty acid, amino acid and mineral content of the blend respectively. Results were compared with WHO recommendations. Results: The blend SBG-C contained all the essential amino acids, which also compared favourably with the “WHO ideal” protein. The fat content of the blend stood at 2.61g/g dm. Total saturated and unsaturated fatty acids were 16.57% and 83.43% respectively. Linoleic acid (18:2n-6) was the most abundant unsaturated fatty acid, while palmitic acid (16;0) was the most abundant saturated acid. A wide range of mineral elements were detected. K,P,Mg,and Ca were the most notable followed by Fe,Na,Al,Zn and Mn. Conclusion: The complementary food SBG-C contains substantial amounts of essential nutrients, which would significantly supplement breast milk. Frequent feeding may however be necessary to ensure optimal growth and development in infants.