Use of Fish Oil as Supplement to Rice Flour for Children

Abstract

Fish oil is a source of omega 3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA having health benefits, such as prevention of heart disease and improvement of brain development including vision. However, these components are susceptible to oxidative damage and its fishy smell may affect consumer acceptance. This study aimed to immobilize this oil in rice flour usually prepared for "sumsum" porridge, a traditional meals for children or mother. Some of type of polymer are mixture with oil and was sprayed on to the rice flour to ensure the oils were coated with these polymer. Hedonic test of "sumsum" porridge was performed for acceptability for 4% fish oil and 4% equal weight of polymer malto-dextrin and soy flour. The nutrient contents were also presented. The nutrient content of the sample could be use as food supplement for under-five year children and his mother.