CHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND NUTRIENT ADEQUACY OF MAIZE GRUEL (PAP) SUPPLEMENTED WITH OTHER FOOD SOURCES IN NGOR-OKPALA LGA, IMO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the chemical composition and nutrient adequacy of maize gruel (pap) supplemented with common food sources by mothers in Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area. Thirty-two (32) rural women each of whom had a child between 6 and 24 months participated in a focus group discussion. Common food sources used to complement pap were identified and analysed. Proximate, vitamin and mineral contents were determined using standard methods. Values were also compared with 65g estimates of the diets to determine its adequacy for infants. Data from the focus group were recorded in note books and audio tapes and later transcribed. Differences in the nutrient content of pap and pap mixes were determined using ANOVA. The common food sources added to pap from the focus group discussion were infant formula (PMILK), ground crayfish (PCRA), ground soybean (PSOY) and groundnut paste (PGRA). The protein content ranged from 2.17-28.70g, fat (0.80-25.05g), carbohydrate (46.11-95.98g), and energy (409.16-490-17kcal). Based on 65g estimates of the analysed pap and pap mixes, PSOY and PGRA met the fat requirements, while PCRA, PSOY and PGRA met protein requirement. The energy and mineral content of pap and pap mixes were found to be inadequate. Fortification of the local pap and pap mixes is therefore recommended.

Keywords: Maize gruel, pap, soybean, groundnut, crayfish