Evaluating the nutritional content of an insect-fortified food for the child complementary diet in Ghana.

Background: Due to rising food insecurity, natural resource scarcity, population growth, and the cost of and demand for animal proteins, insects as food have emerged as a relevant topic. This study examines the nutrient content of the palm weevil larva (), a traditionally consumed edible insect called in Ghana, and assesses its potential as an animal-source, complementary food.

Methods: in two "unmixed" forms (raw, roasted) and one "mixed" form (-groundnut paste) were evaluated for their macronutrient, micronutrient, amino acid, and fatty acid profiles.

An Exploration of Edible Palm Weevil Larvae (Akokono) as a Source of Nutrition and Livelihood: Perspectives From Ghanaian Stakeholders.

Background: Meeting the nutritive needs of infants and young children is a challenge in Ghana. Alternative animal source foods, including insects, could enhance infant and young child dietary quality while also improving livelihoods.

Objective: To investigate the perspectives of Ghanaian stakeholders on the acceptability of the palm weevil larvae ( akokono) as a food source and the feasibility of micro-farming this local edible insect as a complementary food for infants and young children.