Nutritional Evaluation of Some Edible Insects Collected from Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
Keywords:
Edible insects, Proximate, Minerals, Nutritional composition, Ekiti StateAbstract
Edible insects are highly rich sources of protein, healthy fats, dietary fibre, and essential minerals. Their nutritional composition supports human health and emphasizes their importance in sustainable diets. They are one of the most affordable sources of animal protein, and their consumption is often encouraged as an alternative for low-income populations who cannot afford fish or other conventional animal proteins. This research evaluates the proximate and mineral composition of some edible insects found at Ekiti State University, Nigeria. Proximate composition was determined using the standard AOAC method; mineral composition was determined using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometric method, and results were reported as Mean ± Standard error. The results revealed that seven edible insects were found in the study area identified as Anaphe venata, Zonocerus variegatus, Cirina forda, Apis mellifera, Macrotermes nigerensis, Orycetes boas and Rhycophorus phoenix. The study further revealed that the seven insects contained appreciable amounts of proximate constituents and minerals. The results showed that there were significant differences at P<0.05 in the values obtained for Moisture, Protein, Ash and Fat content in all the sampled insects. The results revealed that Zonocerus variegatus had the highest protein content 42.74% while Orycetes boas had the least (20.50%). Orycetes boas had the highest crude fibre content (10.50%), while Macrotermes nigerensis had the least (5.17%). Cirina forda had the highest carbohydrate content (29.96%), while Rhyncophorus phoenics had the least (11.10%). The mineral content results showed that significant differences exist at P<0.05 in the values obtained for calcium, zinc, magnesium and sodium content in all the sampled insects. It is evident from this study that these edible insects are rich in protein and carbohydrates; they are good sources of minerals such as calcium, zinc, magnesium and iron, which are essential for normal development and growth. However, the prevalent issue of malnutrition among children may be resolved through the incorporation of these edible insects into the diet, as they provide an alternative and sustainable source of protein that may contribute to improved nutritional well-being.
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