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Research Article
Nutritional Characteristics of Cowpea Accessions from Peleforo Gon Coulibaly University’s Seed Bank
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
280-288
Received:
23 October 2024
Accepted:
11 November 2024
Published:
8 September 2025
Abstract: The knowledge of the varietal diversity of a species is essential in various programs for its genetic improvement. This study aimed to determine the nutritional composition of the seeds of cowpea accessions from Peleforo GON COULIBALY University’s gene bank in Korhogo. Study was conducted based on eight (8) nutritional parameters: protein, moisture and ash content, carbohydrates, lipids, reducing sugars, dry matter, and energy value. Results showed that different parameters assessed were stable within an accession, as indicated by the low coefficients of variation recorded. Additionally, seeds of the accessions from Peleforo GON COULIBALY University’s seed bank are rich in proteins, with values ranging from 22.52% to 33.07%, and in carbohydrates, with values between 38.72% and 52.73%. The lowest contents were found for reducing sugars (between 0.59% and 14.54%) and ash (between 3.17% and 5.35%). Multivariate analyses allowed for the classification of the accessions into three (3) nutritional groups. These groups were distinguished by their energy value and lipid content. Group 1, which contains 11 accessions, is characterized by a high energy value (392.93 kcal) and a high lipid content (12.08%). Group 2, with 4 accessions, has a low energy value (363.69 kcal) and a medium lipid content (9.80%). Group 3 includes 17 accessions with an average energy value (370.41 kcal) and a low lipid content (8.18%). Group 1 genotypes should benefit from a cowpea improvement programme.
Abstract: The knowledge of the varietal diversity of a species is essential in various programs for its genetic improvement. This study aimed to determine the nutritional composition of the seeds of cowpea accessions from Peleforo GON COULIBALY University’s gene bank in Korhogo. Study was conducted based on eight (8) nutritional parameters: protein, moisture...
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Research Article
The Significance of Food Fortification for Prevention of Major Health Challenges Due to Micronutrient Deficiencies (MND) for Under 5 Years Children in Bangladesh
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
289-296
Received:
4 August 2025
Accepted:
15 August 2025
Published:
8 September 2025
Abstract: Vitamins and minerals, known as micronutrients, are needed in trace levels for healthy growth and development as well as heightened immunity against illness. They need to come from outside sources because the body isn't able to produce them. Inadequate and inappropriate physical and intellectual development results from malnutrition in vulnerable people, including early childhood, expectant and nursing mothers, and the aged people. meals fortification is a safe and practical way to boost consumption of macronutrients by providing essential nutrients in meals. Long-term developmental goals are impacted by vitamin deficiencies. In order to raise public awareness of the advantages of food fortification, an educational program is required. An extensive summary of Bangladesh's current women's and children's micronutrient deficient status is provided in this article. This study also covers the effectiveness of current intervention programs as well as their current issues. Almost half of all expectant and nursing mothers suffer from anemia. High levels of deficiencies are associated with several critical factors, including sickness, malabsorption, infestation, inadequate nutrition, and poor cleanliness. There have been several attempts at interventions, and some success has been achieved. Issues with coverage, quality, and compliance still exist. Even though severe deficiencies have been somewhat addressed by current intervention initiatives, micronutrient deficiencies in Bangladesh continue to be a major concern. A more comprehensive strategy is required to enhance the current intervention initiatives. Additionally, fresh approaches of intervention are proposed in order to prevent and treat specific micronutrient deficiencies.
Abstract: Vitamins and minerals, known as micronutrients, are needed in trace levels for healthy growth and development as well as heightened immunity against illness. They need to come from outside sources because the body isn't able to produce them. Inadequate and inappropriate physical and intellectual development results from malnutrition in vulnerable p...
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Research Article
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Dietary Diversity Among Pregnant Women in Mbulu District, Tanzania
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
297-310
Received:
19 May 2025
Accepted:
26 August 2025
Published:
15 September 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251405.13
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Abstract: Background: Dietary diversity is crucial for maternal and fetal health. However, little is known about pregnant women's knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding dietary diversity. This study aimed to evaluate the KAP status on dietary diversity among pregnant women in Mbulu district, Tanzania. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 pregnant women were selected by using a systematic random sampling. Eight health facilities were selected using a purposive sampling method. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews conducted by trained enumerators using a structured, pretested and interviewer-administered questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Results: Among the 384 participants, 219 (57%) were aged 25–40 years. Overall, 295 (76.8%) lacked adequate knowledge, 273 (71.1%) had negative attitudes, and 233 (60.7%) demonstrated poor practices regarding dietary diversity. Pregnant women residing in urban areas were nearly twice as likely to be knowledgeable as those in rural areas (AOR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.15 - 3.33). A higher household monthly income (> 500,000 TZS) was significantly associated with greater knowledge (AOR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.21 - 5.13). Similarly, those earning between 250 000–500 000 TZS were 1.89 times more likely to be knowledgeable than those earning < 250 000 TZS (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.05 - 3.41). Urban residents were also 1.81 times more likely to have a positive attitude compared to rural residents (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.11 - 2.94). Conclusion: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding dietary diversity among pregnant women were generally low. Urban residence and higher household income were significantly associated with better dietary diversity knowledge, while urban residence was also linked to more positive attitudes. No significant factors were identified associated with dietary diversity practices.
Abstract: Background: Dietary diversity is crucial for maternal and fetal health. However, little is known about pregnant women's knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding dietary diversity. This study aimed to evaluate the KAP status on dietary diversity among pregnant women in Mbulu district, Tanzania. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducte...
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