Chemical Analysis of an Edible African Termite, Macrotermes nigeriensis; a Potential Antidote to Food Security Problem

Cu, Igwe; Co, Ujowundu; La, Nwaogu; Gn, Okwu

doi:10.4172/2161-1009.1000105

Cited by 23 publications

(22 citation statements)

References 10 publications

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“…The studies conducted by Phelps et al 6 in Zimbabwe found that Macrotermes falciger (Gerstacker) are very high in energy with 761 kcal/100 g. Termites can therefore provide food security in many poor African countries as they contain essential nutrients, which are often lacking in the diets of people in those countries. 7 Macrotermes nigeriensis alates have been reported by Igwe et al 8 and Ajayi and Adedire 9 to be consumed as a delicacy in certain parts of Nigeria. People living in Nkoya in the northeastern part of the Western Province of Zambia use termites as an important part of their diets.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 92%

“…She also stated that termites were used by many households to combat malnutrition in the district. A study conducted in Owerri, Nigeria, by Igwe et al 8 revealed that M. nigeriensis is a good source of proteins, minerals and nutrients and played a significant role in fighting protein energy malnutrition. In addition to the health benefits derived from consuming termites, it was also observed that some pregnant and lactating women consumed soil from termitaria of the three identified Macrotermes species for nutrients and good health.…”

Section: Termite Consumptionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Human uses and indigenous knowledge of edible termites in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Netshifhefhe¹,

Kunjeku²,

Duncan³

2018

S. Afr. J. Sci.

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Termites are a good food source, being rich in proteins, fats, vitamins and many essential mineral nutrients, and thus provide food security for poor households. We report on a survey conducted in the Vhembe District Municipality of Limpopo Province, South Africa, to identify edible termite species and find out how they are harvested, prepared, graded, packaged and marketed. We also looked at the socio-economic factors of the harvesters, marketers and consumers. Using a structured questionnaire, 104 individuals were interviewed from 48 villages. Most of the harvesters were over the age of 60 years but termites are consumed by the whole family. The results of the survey revealed that only three termite species are consumed: soldiers of Macrotermes falciger (89.90%), M. natalensis (8.08%) and M. michaelseni (2.02%). The preferred method of preparation was frying (77.55% of the respondents). At least 80.77% of the respondents indicated that some religions have restrictions on termite consumption but no ethnic restrictions were reported. The income derived from selling termites was estimated to range from ZAR2040 to ZAR17 680 per annum between April 2015 and April 2016. The results of this study showed that edible termites contribute significantly to the livelihoods of many rural families and this indigenous knowledge should be passed on to younger generations. Research on the sustainability of termite harvesting is recommended.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 92%

Section: Termite Consumptionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Human uses and indigenous knowledge of edible termites in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Netshifhefhe¹,

Kunjeku²,

Duncan³

2018

S. Afr. J. Sci.

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“…In addition, edible crickets contain twice more Vitamin B12 than the beef [69]. Igwe et al [72] found that Microtermes nigeriensis contain a favourable high source of Niacin, Thiamine, Vitamin A, and C. Vitamins play an important role in human nutrition, as Vitamin C is important for human growth, development, and repair of various body tissues [73]. The excellent source of Vitamins found in some edible insects shows that insects have a great potential of being used as a healthy food supplement for malnourished people, or to prevent malnutrition [24].…”

Section: Nutrient Composition Of Edible Insectsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Nutritional Composition of Edible Insects Consumed in Africa: A Systematic Review

2020

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Edible insects are an important protein rich natural resource that can contribute to resilient food security. Edible insects not only play an important role in traditional diets, but are also an excellent source of protein in traditional dishes in Africa. We systematically searched Web-of-Science and Google Scholar from year 2000–2019 for studies on the consumption of insects and their nutritional composition in Africa, resulting in 98 eligible papers, listing 212 edible insect species from eight orders. These insects were rich in protein, fats, and fibre. The highest protein content was reported for Lepidoptera (range: 20–80%). Coleoptera had the highest carbohydrate content (7–54%), while Lepidoptera had the highest fat content (10–50%). Considering the excellent source of nutrition, and potential socio-economic benefits, from edible insects, they can contribute strongly to improved food security, and rural development in developing countries. In addition, edible insects can be used as a sustainable food source to combat food shortages in the future, for example, providing resilience during times of drought or other climate stressors.

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“…Source: Centre for Geo Information, Wageningen University, based on data compiled by Jongema, 2012 [21]. Banjo et al, [8]; Igwe et al, [9]; Opera et al, [10]; Kelemu et al, [11].…”

Section: Diversity Of Edible Insect Species In the Worldmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Vitamins K and A are required for normal blood clotting and proper vision, respectively. Many studies have shown that edible insects contain appreciable amounts of vitamins [9,44]. The high vitamin content of edible insects presents them as a highly potentially good source of food supplement for malnourished people and animals.…”

Section: Vitamin Composition Of Edible Insectsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Entomophagy: Insects as Food

Tiencheu¹,

Womeni²

2017

Insect Physiology and Ecology

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Due to the increasing cost of animal proteins, food and feed insecurity, population growth, and increasing need for protein-rich food in the developed and less developed countries, alternative sources of protein-rich food are highly needed. Scientific research has shown that edible insects are a very rich source of proteins and other nutrients. Hence, insect consumption might help revolutionaries' food and feed insecurity and thus replace the conventional animal source. This work assesses the potential of insects as food for humans and feed for animals and gathers existing information and research on edible insects. The assessment is based on the most recent and complete data available from various sources and experts around the world, because lack of a complete data on edible insects reduces consumer confidence and limits integration of edible insect consumption with other food sources. Considering the nutritional, economic, and ecological advantages of edible insects over conventional livestock, much attention should therefore be given to their method of collection as this will help improve their availability. This could be achieved by improved conservation or by raising them as a minilivestock. Considering the economic, nutritional, and ecological advantages of this traditional food source, its promotion deserves more attention both from national governments and assistance programs.

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Chemical Analysis of an Edible African Termite, Macrotermes nigeriensis; a Potential Antidote to Food Security Problem

Cited by 23 publications

References 10 publications

Human uses and indigenous knowledge of edible termites in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Human uses and indigenous knowledge of edible termites in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Nutritional Composition of Edible Insects Consumed in Africa: A Systematic Review

Entomophagy: Insects as Food

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