Food Nutrition

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Acceptability of Amaranth Grain-based Nutritious Complementary Foods with Dagaa Fish (Rastrineobola argentea) and Edible Termites (Macrotermes subhylanus) Compared to Corn Soy Blend Plus among Young Children/Mothers Dyads in Western Kenya
(Canadian center of science and education, 2012-07) Konyole S. O; Kinyuru J N; Owuor B. O; Kenji G. M; Onyango C. A; Estambale B.B; Henrik Friis; Nanna Roos; Owino V.O
Abstract We assessed acceptability of two flours and porridges of complementary foods based on germinated grain amaranth and maize with or without edible termites and dagaa small fish named “Winfood Classic” (WFC) and “Winfood Lite” (WFL), respectively, compared to Corn Soy Blend Plus (CSB+) among mothers and young children. A total of 57 children consumed each of the three foods on separate days with one-day washout between foods. Each food was considered acceptable if the child consumed at least 75% of the serving. Most mothers preferred WFL flour and porridge (63.2% and 70.2%, respectively) compared to WFC (24.4% and 10.5%) and CSB+ (12.3% and 19.3%). Children consuming at least 75% of served porridge were 43%, 19.6% and 21% for WFL, WFC and CSB+, respectively. No adverse effects were observed for all the foods throughout the study period and follow up lasting 4 weeks. All foods were acceptable and can be further developed and be tested for efficacy.
Access to and Use of Agricultural Information by Small Scale Women Farmers In Support of Efforts to Attain Food Security in Vihiga County, Kenya
(Scholarlink research institute journals, 2014) Odini, Serah
Small scale women farmers in Vihiga County are subsistence farmers, who toil to grow maize, beans and traditional vegetables, for their family consumption. But due to the unpredictable weather patterns and inadequate information on modern farming practices, their farming efforts are not assisting towards achieving food security. This study investigated how women farmers in Vihiga County access and use information in their endeavours to attain food security. Specifically, the study sought to establish the farming activities of the small scale women farmers, ascertain their information needs and information seeking habits in enhancing food security, establish information sources, channels, and technologies used by women to access information; identify the challenges women farmers experience while seeking information, and suggest ways for improvement. The study utilized both qualitative and quantitative research approaches where data was collected using semi structured face – to - face interviews supplemented by document analysis. A sample of 150 women of age ranging from 15 - 70 years was interviewed. Data was analyzed qualitatively through descriptions and discussions, and presented through tables. Findings showed that food insecurity is a serious problem among the poor households especially among older women, larger households, members with low education levels, and the unemployed. It was established that women farmers constantly perceived information needs related to their daily activities of farming. The study findings show that these information needs are often not adequately satisfied by the existing information systems and services due to inadequate communication and information infrastructure, low literacy levels, lack of suitable information services, and lack of technical competencies. Based on the findings, the study recommends the improvement of the existing information services, systems, and channels of communication. This initiative is set to empower women farmers in ensuring food security and sustainability while promoting alternative income generating opportunities to make decisions that could have significant impact on poverty alleviation
Advances in insects for food and feed
(springer, 2021-09-01) Egonyu, James Peter; Kinyuru, John; Fombong, Forkwa; Ng’ang’a, Jeremiah; Ahmed, Yusuf Abdullahi; Niassy, Saliou
This Special Issue presents the outcomes from the 23rd African Association of Insect Scientists' Conference held in Cote D’Ivoire, in connection with similar initiatives within and outside Africa. Over 65 scientific papers from several countries, worldwide, were submitted, of which about 40 were accepted and published. The issue focused on new advances in the value chain of edible insects in Africa and beyond. An innovative light-emitting diode technology for mass harvesting of edible grasshopper has been developed. The nutrient composition of insects such as the desert locust has been evaluated. Organic waste streams have been found to affect insect productivity and nutritional value. Insect-based feed increases the nutritional quality of poultry meat. Conventional processing methods reduce microbiological hazards in edible insects. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals, excessive microbial loads and pesticides residues threaten safety of some edible insects, if quality control measures are not developed. Climate change will impede availability of edible insects; hence, necessitating upscaling of mass production technologies and sound conservation practices. Safety and hygiene, on the other hand, hamper the acceptability of insects as food and/or feed, particularly in developed countries. Food fortification with insects and isolation of bioactive compounds from them are new highlights in the Special Issue, which were previously under-explored in Africa. The application of modern food processing technology in the development of new products and the medicinal or commercial value derivable from edible insects and their therapeutic functions are excellent opportunities for expanding the sector. Since disgust factors exist, mass sensitisation on the benefits of consuming insects and insect-based products is a must. We believe that the new frontiers on insects for food, feed and other uses that have been presented in this special issue will undoubtedly stimulate more debates and collaborations in the sector within Africa and beyond.
Assessing food security among young farmers in Africa: evidence from Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda
(springer, 2023-02-23) Adeyanju, Dolapo; Mburu, John; Gituro, Wainaina; Chumo, Chepchumba; Mignouna, Djana; Ogunniyi, Adebayo; Akomolafe, John Kehinde; Ejima, Joseph
Food insecurity remains a serious challenge for many households in Africa and the situation is even more prevalent among young people. However, there is a dearth of empirical evidence on youth food security status in Africa. We assessed the level and determinants of food security among young farmers in Africa. We adopted a multi-stage sampling technique to select 400, 429, and 606 young farmers in Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda, respectively. Individual food consumption was assessed following a 7 days recall method. The Food Consumption Score, which combines dietary diversity and consumption frequency was used to assess food security status while the determinants of food security were identified using a logistic regression model. Results suggest low dietary diversity across the three countries. Also, the majority of the respondents had an unacceptable food consumption score, suggesting that despite being food producers, young farmers are still food insecure. The odds of being food secure was positively determined by access to extension services, participation in the ENABLE TAAT business incubation programme, and access to market information but, negatively by access to credit, number of employees, Covid-19 pandemic, and location. Additionally, the food security status of young female farmers was positively influenced by age, suggesting that younger youths are less food secure compared to older ones. These results suggest that more efforts should be directed towards improving the food security of young African farmers and that policy- and programme-level interventions should support access to extension services, market information, and land. Additionally, more investments should be directed towards developing need-based agribusiness incubation programmes with an effort to scale existing programmes beyond the regular one-time period.
Assessing Nutrient Intake and Nutrient Status of HIV Seropositive Patients Attending Clinic at Chulaimbo Sub-District Hospital, Kenya
(wiley publishers, 2012) Onyango, Agatha Christine; Walingo, Mary Khakoni; Mbagaya, Grace; Kakai, Rose
Background. Nutritional status is an important determinant of HIV outcomes. Objective. To assess the nutrient intake and nutrient status of HIV seropositive patients attending an AIDS outpatient clinic, to improve the nutritional management of HIV-infected patients. Design. Prospective cohort study. Setting. Comprehensive care clinic in Chulaimbo Sub-District Hospital, Kenya. Subjects. 497 HIV sero-positive adults attending the clinic. Main Outcome Measures. Evaluation of nutrient intake using 24-hour recall, food frequency checklist, and nutrient status using biochemical assessment indicators (haemoglobin, creatinine, serum glutamate pyruvate (SGPT) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV)). Results. Among the 497 patients recruited (M : F sex ratio: 1.4, mean age: 39 years ± 10.5 y), Generally there was inadequate nutrient intake reported among the HIV patients, except iron (10.49 ± 3.49 mg). All the biochemical assessment indicators were within normal range except for haemoglobin 11.2 g/dL (11.4 ± 2.60 male and 11.2 ± 4.25 female). Conclusions. Given its high frequency, malnutrition should be prevented, detected, monitored, and treated from the early stages of HIV infection among patients attending AIDS clinics in order to improve survival and quality of life.
Assessment and Optimization of Dietary Selenium Intake in Kenya: Exploration of Biofortification as a Solution to the Hidden Hunger
(Ghent University, 2019-01) Ngigi Peter Biu
Selenium (Se) is an element for which trace amounts are essential for life. An adequate Se intake is crucial for antioxidant properties, redox regulation, and thyroid hormone regulation. Dietary Se intake impacts the immune system functioning, the response to viral infection, early growth and development, and the incidence of some cancers. Selenium deficiency therefore results in clinical disorders, many of them recognized today as public health problems globally. Low dietary Se intake is mainly caused by environmental conditions that inhibit soil Se mobility and availability for plants uptake resulting in low Se concentration in foodstuffs, coupled with monotonous diets based on a few staple foods. Yet, the complexity of how these factors interact and the mechanisms causing Se deficiency vary between regions and countries. Understanding these mechanisms is necessary to design suitable solutions and policies to address Se deficiency among affected communities. Selenium deficiency in Africa has previously been reported to be greatest in the East African region at 52%, with Kenya having a low dietary Se availability of 27 to 45 µg capita-1 day-1 and a risk of dietary Se inadequacy of 26 to 75 %. This thesis addressed Se deficiency in Kenya from a human nutrition, food science, environmental chemistry, and agricultural perspective. The main study region is Central Kenya Highlands, characterized by a variety of agricultural soils and a high population density relying on subsistence farming. Chapter 1 contributes to a better understanding of the inherent background of Se deficiency in Kenya. It describes the factors that potentially contribute to the existing risk of micronutrients deficiency. It highlights that food insecurity remains a major problem with 47% of Kenyans not being able to access sufficient food to meet daily nutrients requirements especially in rural areas. This leads to the emergence of micronutrient deficiencies, as reflected in the estimated high risk of dietary Se deficiency. Notably, Se research in the developing world was constrained by analytical limitations related to costs of equipment acquisition and maintenance, and the need for specific instrumental settings and sample preparation procedures not allowing Se to be determined in a same run as other minerals. This explains unavailability of foods’ Se concentration data in local food composition tables (FCTs) and consequently, its exclusion in past national nutrition surveys and interventions. Selenium is therefore not under consideration as part of health-targeted interventions and policies in Kenya.
Batter rheology and bread texture of sorghum‐based gluten‐free formulations modified with native or pregelatinised cassava starch and α‐amylase
(Institute of food Science technology, 2010-05-26) Onyango Calvin; Mutungi Christopher; Ubehend Gunter; Lindhauer Meinolf G.
Summary The influence of a-amylase (0–0.3 U g)1) on the crumb properties of gluten-free sorghum batter and bread, respectively, was investigated. The formulations were modified using native or pregelatinised cassava starch (i.e. batter A – 17% pregelatinised starch, 83% sorghum, 100% water fwb; batter B – 17% native starch, 83% sorghum, 100% water fwb; and batter C – 30% native starch, 70% sorghum, 80% water fwb). The batters had solid viscoelastic character with the storage modulus predominant over the loss modulus. Storage moduli of batter A decreased with increasing angular frequency, whereas the moduli of batters B and C were independent from the angular frequency. Increasing enzyme concentration did not affect the loss factors of the batters. Batters’ resistance to deformation, from highest to lowest, followed the order C > A > B. Increasing enzyme concentration decreased crumb firmness, cohesiveness, springiness, resilience and chewiness but increased adhesiveness. Overall, breads containing native starch had better crumb properties (i.e. springier and less firm, chewy and adhesive) than breads containing pregelatinised starch.
Camel health management and pastoralists’ knowledge and information on zoonoses and food safety risks in Isiolo County, Kenya
(springer, 2017) Lamuka, Peter Obimbo; Njeruh, Francis M.; Gitao, George C.; Abey, Khalif A.
Camel health management has implications for public health and camel product trade. After liberalization of the veterinary service, current camel health management in the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALS) of Kenya and its implications for public health is not known. This study investigated camel health management and its implications on zoonoses and food safety in Isiolo County, Kenya. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered to 150 households, 15 agro-veterinary shops, 15 community-based animal health workers (CBAHWs) and 10 veterinary officers to collect information on camel health management. The main occupation and source of household income for the pastoral communities is camel-keeping (45.3%). Pastoralists self-medicate camels and other livestock (45.8%), which can lead to between over-dosing, under-dosing or wrong drug use. The CBAHWs, traditional animal health service providers (TAHSPs), government veterinary officers and private veterinary officers play a minimum role. Private veterinary services have not taken root in the ASALs. The sources of knowledge and information on the veterinary drug to use are experience (57.4%), non-governmental organizations (NGO) (41.1%) or CBAHWs (32.1%). The majority of pastoralists (72.5%) do not keep camel or other livestock treatment records. The constraints in purchasing veterinary drugs are expensive drugs, accessibility to drugs and availability of money. Pastoralists refer to veterinary drugs by their brand names but not by active ingredients. As reported by pastoralists, focus group discussion and key informant interviews, antibiotics used were adamycine (33.3%), ampicilline (26.7%), penicillin (14.4%), tetracycline (12.2%), amoxylin (11.1%) and penstrip (2.2%). The common camel diseases were trypanosomiasis, brucellosis, mastitis, diarrhoea, worm infestation, camel pox and tuberculosis. The public health risk factors were the presence of veterinary drug residues in camel products and development of resistant zoonotic organisms/diseases. It was concluded that current camel health management has serious implications for public health and food safety, and hence the camel product trade.
Colonization Patterns of Benthic Macroinvertebrates in Fertilized And Non-Fertilized Earthen Fish Ponds
(International Journal of Aquaculture and Fishery Sciences, 2018) Orwa Patrick; Omondi Reuben; Chemoiwa Emily
International Journal of Aquaculture and Fishery SciencesISSN: 2455-8400CC By022Life Sciences Group Citation: Orwa PO, Omondi R, Chemoiwa EJ (2018) Colonization patterns of benthic macroinvertebrates in fertilized and non-fertilized earthen fish ponds. Int J Aquac Fish Sci 4(3): 022-026. DOI: http://doi.org/10.17352/2455-8400.000039http://doi.org/10.17352/24558400.000039DOIanAbstractStudy conducted in Kwanza, Trans-Nzoia County to determine the colonization pattern of benthic macroinvertebrates in earthen fi sh ponds. This was done to ascertain the right stocking time of ponds when the natural fi sh food is in plenty. Two ponds were used for this study; one was treated with organic manure while the other was not fertilized. Sampling for physico-chemical parameters were then taken immediately after fi lling the ponds and repeated weekly for six weeks while benthic macroinvertebrates were fi rst sampled after week 1 and repeated weekly for six weeks. The results obtained were compared between the two treatments and per treatment over time. There were signifi cant differences in most parameters over the weeks and between the treatments. Attainment of suitable conditions for stocking was however at week 3 for fertilized and week 4 for the non-fertilized contrary to the usual two week period advised by most procedures
Composition of Polyphenols in Wheat Bread Supplemented with Pleurotus ostreatus Mushroom
(American Journal of Food Technology, 2015) Ndung'u, Stella W.; Otieno, Christina A.; Onyango, Calvin; Musieba, Fredrick
Pleurotus ostreatus mushrooms were blanched, milled into flour and incorporated into wheat flour at 5, 10 and 15%. These composite flours, together with composite breads developed from these formulations were evaluated for polyphenols, namely flavones and isoflavones. Wheat flour and wheat bread were used as control samples. Extraction of polyphenols was done using ethanol as a solvent and analyzed using gas chromatographmass spectrometry. It was not possible to make bread with 15% mushrooms. Quantities of different flavones and isoflavones evaluated increased significantly (p<0.05) with increasing supplementation of mushroom flour in wheat flour. Composite breads were also observed to have higher contents of flavones and iso flavones as compared to bread prepared from wheat flour only. Composite flour with 15% mushrooms had highest quantities of flavones and isoflavones while composite bread with 10% mushroom flour had significantly higher (p<0.05) levels of these compounds. Caffeic acid was the most abundant amongst all the flavones analyzed in wheat mushroom blends while genistein was the most abundant isoflavone. Flavones and isoflavones in human nutrition protect against oxidative stress and also provide medicinal properties such as antimicrobial, antiviral and anticancer benefits. Pleurotus mushrooms are a good source of these important compounds hence incorporating them in daily diet like bread would ensure constant supplementation for improved health and nutrition.
Cost effectiveness of using surgery versus skeletal traction in management of femoral shaft fractures at Thika level 5 hospital, Kenya
(PAMJ, 2013-06-06) Opondo, Everisto; Wanzala, Peter; Makokha, Ansellimo
BACKGROUND: A prospective quasi experimental study was undertaken at the Thika level 5 hospital. The study aimed to compare the costs of managing femoral shaft fracture by surgery as compared to skeletal traction. METHODS: sixty nine (46.6%) patients were enrolled in group A and managed surgically by intramedullary nailing while 79 (53.4%) patients were enrolled in group B and managed by skeletal traction. Exclusion criteria included patients with pathological fractures and previous femoral fractures. Data was collected by evaluation of patients in patient bills using a standardized questionnaire. The questionnaire included cost of haematological and radiological tests, bed fees, theatre fees and physiotherapy costs. The data was compiled and analyzed using SPSS version 16. Person’s chi square and odds ratios were used to measure associations and risk analysis respectively. RESULTS: A higher proportion of patients (88.4%) in group A were hospitalized for less than one month compared to 20 patients (30.4%) in group B (p, 0.001).Total cost of treatment in group A was significantly lower than in group B. Nineteen (27.9%) patients who underwent surgery paid a total bill of Ksh 5000-7500 compared to 7(10.4%) who were treated by traction. The financial cost benefit of surgery was further complimented by better functional outcomes. CONCLUSION: The data indicates a cost advantage of managing femoral shaft fracture by surgery compared to traction. Furthermore the longer hospital stay in the traction group is associated with more malunion, limb deformity and shortening.
Creep-Recovery Parameters of Gluten-Free Batter and Crumb Properties of Bread Prepared from Pregelatinised Cassava Starch, Sorghum and Selected Proteins
(International Journal of Food Science & Technology, 2009) Onyango Calvin; Muttungi Christopher; Unbehend Gunter; Lindhauer G. Meinolf
The effect of egg white, skim milk powder, soy protein isolate and soy protein concentrate on creep-recovery parameters of gluten-free batter made from sorghum and pregelatinised cassava starch was studied. Batter treated with egg white had the highest deformation and compliance parameters and lowest zero shear viscosities and differed significantly (P < 0.05) from the other treatments. However, this batter recovered its elasticity sufficiently and its elastic portion of maximum creep compliance did not differ significantly (P < 0.05) from the other treatments. Unlike the other treatments, egg white did not decrease bread volume and exhibited the lowest crumb firmness and staling rate. Optimisation of the amount of egg white with diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono and diglycerides (DATEM) showed that creep-recovery parameters and crumb hardness were affected by the linear, quadratic and interaction effects of the input variables. Treatment with 6% and 0.1% w ⁄ w fwb egg white and DATEM, respectively, gave gluten-free batter with the least elastic portion of maximum creep compliance (Je ⁄ Jmax = 11.65%) which corresponded to the lowest crumb firmness (790.8 g).
Design Strategy for Effective Passion Fruit Waste Bioconversion with Crude Fungal Enzyme Extracts
(Biologia, 2023-11) Ojwang Daniel; Obiero George Ogello; Mulaa Francis; Midiwo Jacob
The objective of this study was to investigate the key factors that influence performance of crude enzyme cocktails in passion fruit peel hydrolysis. Enzyme extracts were obtained from a newly isolated strain of Aspergillus niger KWM. The Box-Behnken Design (BBD) model was developed to determine the optimal conditions for peel hydrolysis. The effect of surfactants and metal ions on the efficacy of enzyme extracts was also investigated. The BBD model predicted maximum galacturonic acid (GalA) yield of 65.3 mg/g at temperature of 50 °C, pH medium of 7.5, substrate loading of 2% (v/v), and an incubation period of 10 h. However, experiments conducted under similar conditions produced GalA that was 2.7% higher than predicted value. Surfactants and metal ions, on the other hand, increased GalA yield even more, with Tween 20 and 2 mM Mg2+ increasing yield by 10.6% (w/v) and 11% (w/v), respectively. The highest GalA yield of 77.8 mg/g dwb or 16% increase, was reported when Mg2+ and Tween 20 were used at a ratio of 0.06. This study revealed that, in addition to optimising key process parameters, the proper proportion of suitable surfactants and metal ions is critical for better performance of crude enzyme cocktails in biomass hydrolysis.
DESMODIUM EFFECT ON SOIL FERTILITY, STRIGA CONTROL AND MAIZE PRODUCTION IN BUSIA AND SIAYA COUNTIES, WESTERN KENYA.
(University of Eldoret, 2013) Kifuko-Koech, Njeri Mary
Low soil fertility, stemborer and Striga weeds limit production of maize in western Kenya. Desmodium in the “Push-Pull” technology has been found to reduce Striga and stemborer but its contribution to soil fertility rehabilitation is not well understood. Field trials were conducted in Busia and Siaya counties, western Kenya, to test the hypotheses that (1) inorganic nitrogen, soil carbon, 13C isotope discrimination ( 13C) and biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) in maize-Desmodium intercropping system are affected by Desmodium species and sampling time and (2) maize yield, the degree of Striga suppression and economic benefits of intercropping maize with Desmodium are affected by different Desmodium species and the cutting regime of the Desmodium. Maize was intercropped with Desmodium uncinatum (Jacq.) DC., cv Silverleaf (D. uncinatum) or Desmodium intortum (Mill.) Urb. cv Greenleaf (D. intortum), and treatments with sole maize with or without urea were included for comparison. The first two Desmodium cutting events were fixed at every start of every season and 4 weeks later while the third cutting was varied and conducted at 9, 12 or 18 weeks after planting maize in each season. Maize biomass, mineral nitrogen, soil carbon,  13C and biological nitrogen fixation parameters were determined over time in both maize-Desmodium intercrop with Desmodium cut at 18WAP and sole maize systems. To study the contribution of Desmodium to soil phosphorus (P) rehabilitation, a greenhouse experiment was conducted in two phases to assess the extent to which Desmodium spp fertilized with Busumbu phosphate rock (BPR) could increase soil available P, P uptake and biomass yield of maize crop planted after Desmodium spp. Treatments included sole maize and two Desmodium spp : (D intortum and D.uncinatum) with or without BPR grown in the first phase of the experiment followed by sole maize with no P application in the second phase of the experiment. Reference treatments with soluble P (KH2PO4) were included. Results showed that D. intortum was superior to D. uncinatum in producing the highest biomass, fixed N, soil carbon, mineral N and N concentration at different sampling times. However, despite these positive attributes, D. intortum resulted in somewhat lower cumulated (over four seasons) maize grain yields. Maize shoots 13C values in Desmodium intercropping and sole maize systems did not differ significantly, an indication of comparable environmental effect on both systems. Varying the time of cutting Desmodium had little effect on maize yield and net benefits. Average net benefits from Desmodium intercropping over the four seasons were increased by 1290 and 918 $ ha-1 relative to the maize monocrop in Busia and Siaya respectively. D. intortum and D. uncinatum equally reduced Striga counts, an indication that the two species may demonstrate comparable phytochemical attributes. Greenhouse results showed that maize dry matter yields, plant P concentration and available P in soils were higher in maize following Desmodium spp compared to maize following maize wheather BPR was applied or not. D. intortum was however a more potent solubilizer of BPR than D. uncinatum. The present study extends the recommendation of the Desmodium-maize intercropping system to farmers who apply P fertilizers and can benefit from increased soil nitrogen, soil carbon and crop yield after the system becomes well established. Nevertheless, a further multi-locational and multi-seasonal evaluation of Desmodium-maize intercropping system would be required to investigate whether the system is also advantageous in terms of yield stability and sustainability, across locations and seasons.
Determinants of Food Crop Diversification Among Smallholder Maize Farmers For Enhanced Food Security In Bomet County, Kenya
(university of Kabiaga, 2021) Mwangagi, Everlyne Cherotich
Food crop production by smallholder farmers has encountered various challenges of which climate change (CC), pests and diseases are the most common. Global quest for enhancement of food security and reduction of poverty is evident as it is enshrined in policy statements such as the Green Revolution, Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Overreliance on one type of food crop worsens the impact of CC on food security. Practicing diversification through production and utilization of alternative food crops is one of the key climate-smart strategies to mitigate risks from CC, pests and diseases. This study was undertaken with the three objectives namely to; determine the extent of food crops diversification, Identify factors influencing diversification of food crops production by smallholder maize farmers. This study explored diversification in the food crop subsector, an area that has not been ventured in by other researchers who majorly focused on diversification to the horticulture subsector. This study used cross-sectional survey and descriptive research designs. Stratified random sampling was used to sample three hundred and forty one (341) smallholder maize farmers in Sotik, Bomet East and Chepalungu Sub-counties from a target population of three thousand and ninety four (3094) maize farmers. Fifteen (15) ward extension officers were also targeted. Primary data was collected using an interview schedule for the maize farmers while a questionnaire was used for the extension staff. Secondary information was also obtained from the Agriculture directorate in the county. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20, Microsoft excel and STATA version 14 was used to process data for analysis. Herfindahl Index was used to analyze the extent of diversification while Tobit regression model was applied to analyze its determinants. The pattern of diversification was deduced from the tabulated records of food crops grown in the area of study within the cropping year in consideration of the three previous years of production. Results from the study indicated that the maize farmers were low to moderately diversified on food crops production with a mean CDI of 0.4974. Socio-economic factors that influence food crop diversification were civil status of the household head, Age, Experience in farming and farm size. Access to credit and perceived availability of markets impacted positively on food crop diversification in the area of study with access to credit being the highest contributor to CDI with an impact of 18%. Additionally, extension service provision by private and public sector had a positive impact on food crop diversification. Food crop production pattern in the county was found to be bi-modal with Maize, sorghum, finger millet and beans while Irish and sweet potatoes were grown throughout the year. Based on the study results, the following recommendations were made;Encourage food crops production among the young and educated, improve access and control of land use, enhance extension service provision and foster public private partnership (PPP), provide farmer friendly credit products, Avail quality food crops production inputs on time, facilitate the farmers’ groups on establishing market linkages and other forms of collective marketing and train farmers on record keeping. Finally, this research recommends further research on the economicefficiency of food crop diversification.
Determining Nutritive Value of Cereal Crop Residues and Lentil (Lens esculanta) Straw for Ruminants
(Scientific Research Publishing Inc., 2016-12-07) Haile, Eyob; Gicheha, Mathew; Njonge, Francis K.; Asgedom, Goitom
The chemical composition and in situ dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) degradability of seven different cereal crop residues were evaluated in this study. They included the Sorghum stovers (SS) and its threshed head residues (STH), millet stovers (MS) and its threshed head residues (MTH), corn stover (CS), wheat (WS) and barley (BS) straws. A legume crop residue (lentil, Lens esculanta, straw; LS) was included for comparison with the cereal crop residues. The CS was high (P crude protein (CP) and acid detergent lignin (ADL) and the lowest (P Neutral Detergent Fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF) when compared to the amounts in SS and MS. It was found out that LS had higher (P a, c fraction were highest (P the highest. The chemical composition and degradability of different crop residues found in Eritrea indicate the potential the residues have in supplementing grazing animals.
Development of a nutrient-dense complementary food using amaranth-sorghum grains
(Wiley Periodicals, Inc., 2017) Okoth, Judith Kanensi; Ochola, Sophie Atieno; Gikonyo, Nicholas K.; Makokha, Anselimo
Thin porridge from cereals and starchy tubers is a common complementary food in Sub Saharan Africa. It may be high in antinutrients, low in energy, and nutrient density hence inadequate in providing infants' high energy and nutrients requirements per unit body weight. Consequently, undernourishment levels among children under 5 years are high. Therefore, there is need to avail nutrient-dense complementary foods especially for children in low-resource settings. The study was aimed at developing a nutrient-dense complementary food from amaranth and sorghum grains. Amaranth grain, a pseudocereal, though rarely used as a complementary food in Kenya has a higher nutritional quality than other staples. Plant-based foods are known to have high levels of antinutrients. Steeping and germination were used to reduce the levels of antinutrients and enhance the bioavailability of minerals in the grains. Various steeped and germinated amaranth and sorghum grains formulations were made to find the ratio with the highest nutrient content and lowest antinutrient levels. The 90% amaranth-sorghum grains formulation had significantly (F = 32.133, P < 0.05) higher energy (5 kcal per g on dry weight basis) than the other formulations and a protein content of 14.4%. This is higher than the estimated protein needs from complementary foods even for a 12–23 months child of low breast milk intake (9.1 g/d). Antinutrients could not be detected which could imply enhanced nutrient bioavailability. Therefore, a nutrient-dense complementary food product was developed from steeped and germinated amaranth and sorghum grains with 90% amaranth grain. In ready to eat form, it would give an energy content of 1.7 kcal per g (dilution of 1:2 amaranth-sorghum flour to water) and 1.2 kcal per g (dilution of 1:4 amaranth-sorghum flour to water). It can be used as a nutrient-dense complementary food and for other vulnerable groups.
Dietary intake and cognitive development among children in Kisumu county, Kenya
(African Scholarly Science Communications Trust, 2020-10) Sawe CJ; Kogi-Makau W; Ettyang GAK; CO Kimamo
Varied nutrient-dense and high-quality diet are key to ideal growth and cognitive function in the early years of life. Nutrient deficiency can lead to negative functional effects of the brain and poor cognitive function. High rates of poverty in developing countries predispose children to malnutrition. This study aimed at exploring factors associated with dietary intake and cognitive development among children in Kisumu County, Kenya. This was a cross-sectional study survey that recruited 192 children aged less than 24 months. Food frequency questionnaire and Bayleys Scale for Infant Development kit was used to collect data. It was revealed that a total of 51% were girls with 30% aged below 6 months. Only 12% had cognitive scores above average. Child cognitive scores were linked with age (p= 0.022), carbohydrate (p=0.021), fat (p=0.011) and iron (p=0.022) intake. Only 34% and 32% of children consumed diets adequate in proteins and iron, respectively. Of children aged above 18 months, only 13% consumed diet adequate in iron. Factors associated with carbohydrate intake included: mother's marital status (p=0.036) and her level of income (p=0.028) while protein intake related to the type of housing (p=0.013). Fat intake was linked with the mother's marital status (p=0.009) and her level of income (p=0.001) while the iron intake was linked to the mother's level of income (p=<0.001) and her educational level (p< 0.001). Vitamin A intake was linked to the ability to pay rent by the household (p=0.016). Further analysis revealed that children whose fathers were earning more than Kenya shillings 3000.00 per month had 0.2 times lower risk of being above average on cognitive scores compared to those whose fathers were earning less than Kenya shillings 3000.00 per month, while those with an inadequate intake of carbohydrate had 8 times more risk of having cognitive scores above average compared to those whose diets were adequate. In conclusion, majority of children consumed diets inadequate in protein and iron while 12% of children had cognitive scores above average. Mother’s marital status, eduation and income influenced child’s dietary intake while their age groups and father’s income were associated with child's cognitive outcomes. Policies to enhance parental education and income level should be formulated to improve child's dietary and cognitive outcomes.
Dietary intake of vitamin a, household food security and Prevalence of undernutrition among lactating Mothers in Sinai Slum, Nairobi County, Kenya
(Moi University, 2021) Ochere, John
Background Vitamin A deficiency is a problem of public health significance among all thefamily members including the lactating mothers. In Africa, about 20% of the women ofchild bearing age are undernourished. In Kenya, 12% of the women 15-49 years areconsidered thin with a body mass index (BMI) of < 18.5. During the period of lactation,nutrient needs of the lactating mother increase to cater for her needs and the breastfeedingchild. Low dietary intake of vitamin A during lactation has been found to result ininadequate concentration in breast. Due to this, undernutrition is common among lactatingmothers.Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the adequacy of dietary intake ofvitamin A, prevalence of undernutrition and household food security among lactatingmothers aged 16-45 years in Sinai slum, Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectiveswere to determine i) adequacy of dietary intake of vitamin A ii) prevalence ofundernutrition iii) Household food security.Methods: A cross sectional study method was employed with participants identifiedthrough consecutive sampling. A total of 384 lactating mothers from Sinai slum attendingLunga Lunga health centre participated in the study from March to April 2011. A 24-hourdietary recall and a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) were used to assess dietaryadequacy of vitamin A intake. Prevalence of undernutrition was determined throughanthropometric measurements; Body Mass Index and Mid Upper Arm Circumference(MUAC). Household food security was determined using food insecurity access scale anddietary diversity questionnaires. Statistical analysis was done using Microsoft excel andSPSS Version 23.0. Descriptive analysis was used to display participant characteristicwhile Chi-square test was used to test for associations between inadequate intake of vitaminA, maternal undernutrition, household food security, and sociodemographic factors.Logistic regression was used to determine actual predictors of adequate dietary intake ofvitamin A, maternal undernutrition and household food security.Results: A total of 225 (58.6%) lactating mothers had inadequate dietary intake of vitaminA while 120 (31.3%) had low MUAC<220mm and 53(13.8%) had low Body Mass Index(BMI). Low protein intakes correlated with inadequate vitamin A intakes and low MUAC(p=0.043, p=0.035). Energy intake had a statistically significant association with dietaryintake of vitamin A and low MUAC (p<0.001). Food insecurity had a statisticallysignificant association with inadequate dietary intakes of Vitamin A, low MUAC and lowBMI. Food insecure households were 2 times more likely to have inadequate Vitamin Aintakes (p<0.001), low MUAC (p=0.002 and low BMI (p=0.042). The Household DietaryDiversity Score HDDS score was 5.2(SD=2.15). Dietary diversity correlated withinadequate Vitamin A intakes (p=0.003). Length of breastfeeding also correlated with lowMUAC (p=0.027).Conclusion: Lactating women in Sinai slums have low dietary intake of vitamin A.Additionally, they are under nourished with characteristic low protein and energy intakesas well as BMI and MUAC. Food insecurity alongside limited purchasing powercompromise positive nutritional outcomes for the mothers hence at risk of these multiplemicronutrient deficiencies.Recommendations: There is need for well-designed nutrition intervention programsfocusing on nutrient intake of affordable foods to increase dietary diversity and food varietyof lactating women in this low socio-economic setting. Concurrent nutrition sensitization,distribution of nutritional supplements and empowerment programs through incomegenerating activities, developing policies and comprehensive approaches, integrating foodbasedstrategies by the government to address the high prevalence of undernutrition amonglactating mothers. Such interventions would improve their nutritional status as wellultimately reduce vitamin A deficiencies.vi
Dynamic Moisture Sorption Characteristics of Enzyme-Resistant Recrystallized Cassava Starch
(American Chemical Society, 2011-01-24) Christopher Mutungi; Stefan Schuldt; Calvin Onyango; Yvonne Schneider; Doris Jaros; Harald Rohm
The interaction of moisture with enzymeresistant recrystallized starch, prepared by heat-moisture treatment of debranched acid-modified or debranched non-acid-modified cassava starch, was investigated in comparison with the native granules. Crystallinities of the powdered products were estimated by X-ray diffraction. Moisture sorption was determined using dynamic vapor sorption analyzer and data fitted to various models. Percent crystallinities of native starch (NS), non-acidmodified recrystallized starch (NAMRS), and acid-modified recrystallized starch (AMRS) were 39.7, 51.9, and 56.1%, respectively. In aw below 0.8, sorption decreased in the order NS > NAMRS > AMRS in line with increasing sample crystallinities but did not follow this crystallinity dependence at higher aw because of condensation and polymer dissolution effects. Adsorbed moisture became internally absorbed in NS but not in NAMRS and AMRS, which might explain the high resistance of the recrystallized starches to digestion because enzyme and starch cannot approach each other over fairly sufficient surface at the molecular level.

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