Micronutrient and antinutrient content of semi-processed fruit peels: Towards boosting immunity.

Background: Fruits are excellent sources of micronutrients; hence, their consumption is highly recommended. However, fruit peels, often discarded, despite some being edible have been reported to contain essential nutrients and antioxidants, which contribute to disease prevention and well-being.

Aim: This study sought to evaluate the micronutrient and antinutrient content of 10 edible fruit peels namely, orange, mango, pineapple, banana, lemon, mandarin, red apple, cucumber, guava and pawpaw peels.

Modern vs traditional indigenous diet preference in Gauteng region, South Africa: A public health concern?

The prevalence of non-communicable diseases still represents a public health concern in South Africa, of which eating habits are some of the main risk factors. A modern diet consisting of the consumption of highly processed foods high in fat, salt and caloric sweeteners and low in fibre is recognised as unhealthy. This study was conducted to assess the penchant of the population for these types of foods rather than traditional indigenous foods known to be healthier.

Haematinic and Hepatoprotective Properties of Fruit Mesocarp on Phenylhydrazine-Induced Anaemia in Experimental Rats.

The level and potential of iron contained in fluted pumpkin () has been exploited as a blood tonic; however, the potentials of some other parts of the plant are unknown. The effect of fruit mesocarp (aqueous extract) on phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced anaemia in experimental rats was investigated in a bid to determine its curative properties and potential in reversing haemolytic anaemia and protection of liver health. The LD of the fruit extract was determined using Lorke's method for the determination of acute toxicity.

The role of nutrition knowledge in dietary adjustments during COVID-19 pandemic.

Knowledge/awareness significantly influences people's dietary choices, lifestyle, and inadvertently their health outcomes; hence it is imperative that people have correct information with regards to food and health. This study was undertaken to establish the role of nutrition knowledge on dietary choices and habits of people in Calabar, especially after the hard COVID-19 lockdown, and to ascertain if there was any positive or negative effect on the lifestyle of the people. It consisted of a cross-sectional survey in Calabar, Cross River State - Nigeria.

COVID-19 preventives consumed in South Africa versus other Sub-Saharan African countries.

Background: The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been of global concern as it has affected the health of many and the economies of nations. In order to strengthen the immune system against COVID-19, certain plant-source foods were consumed.

Aim: This study was designed to identify and compare various special foods and drinks consumed to prevent COVID-19 during the lockdown in various sub-Saharan countries in comparison to South Africa (SA), as well as highlighting some current dietary recommendations.

Effect of the coronavirus pandemic on nutrition and health of adults in Calabar, Nigeria: A post-lockdown analysis.

Background: The food security and nutrition of millions of people around the world is currently being threatened by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, an evolving health crisis.

Aim: To evaluate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on nutrition and health of adults in Calabar, especially after the hard lockdown.

Setting: Online cross-sectional survey in Calabar, Nigeria.

Protein Quality Evaluation of Some Commonly Consumed Bird Egg Varieties Using Amino Acid Scores.

Objective: Food proteins provide amino acids (AAs) and serve as building blocks of all vital organs, muscles, hormones, and biological fluids such as blood. Eggs are known as a good source of protein. This study compared the protein quality of bird eggs (raw and boiled), using their AA scores since some individuals consume raw eggs for various reasons.

Food safety behavioural changes among the population in Sub-Saharan Africa during the COVID-19 first wave.

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is known as a region that is highly affected by foodborne illnesses; and like the rest of the world, SSA is also deeply concerned about the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the risk of infection by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus from food products and food packaging being thought to be very low, it does not exclude possibilities of cross-contamination. This study aimed at assessing that risk based on the population's key food safety Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) that might be considered important to limit eventual virus propagation.