Consumption patterns and usage of selected underutilized legumes in a Ghanaian community

Abstract

Underutilized legumes are a good source of plant proteins, but they exhibit a hard‐to‐cook nature and poor digestibility due to the presence of anti‐nutritional factors. This study focused on the factors that drive the utilization of selected underutilized legumes in the Techiman municipality of Ghana. The legumes studied were Vigna subterrenea (Bambara groundnut), Cajanus cajan (Pigeon pea), Phaseolus lunatus (Lima bean), Parkia biglobosa (African Locust bean), and Canavalia gladiata (Sword bean). The survey provided insight into the familiarity, uses, preparation methods, and the extent of knowledge of their nutritional benefits. The demographics of the participants studied were also described, and statistical analysis was done using descriptive statistics. The results showed that the legumes were well recognized despite their underutilized status and they find use primarily in domestic savory food preparation. Consumption was mostly occasional despite the knowledge of its nutritional benefits. Processing mainly referred to boiling with prior removal of foreign materials and soaking in water. Nutrition stood out as the most desired property. Strategies aiming at maximizing the use of these legumes must be considered and developed since these legumes appear to be a formidable resource for combating the prevalent food insecurity in Africa.

Impact of Pretreatments on Protein Digestibility and Chemical and Functional Properties of Selected Underutilized Legumes

“…A preliminary survey was done to assess the levels of utilization and consumption of the selected ULs in the communities where they are found. 18 Based on the results of this survey, six ULs and processing methods were selected. All the samples were obtained between the 11th and 14th November, 2021.…”

“…Pigeon peas were obtained from Tamale in the Northern region of Ghana. A preliminary survey was done to assess the levels of utilization and consumption of the selected ULs in the communities where they are found . Based on the results of this survey, six ULs and processing methods were selected.…”

“…The knowledge of their existence is also limited, and they tend to be only known within niche communities. These factors limit the potential of ULs to be incorporated into industrial processes and value-added products. , There is therefore a need for more knowledge and innovation on enhancing the utilization of ULs. The gap in knowledge and innovation consequently affects food security and livelihoods of millions who depend on or could benefit from these legumes.…”

Sensory acceptability and nutritional quality of composite bread with added puree from biofortified beans in Malawi

“…Beans are an underutilized crop despite their abundance and nutritional importance in diets (Agyekum et al, 2023). Traditionally, in the majority of African countries, beans are regarded as the poor man's meat because most of the rural people who cannot afford meat get their protein from them.…”