| 1 |
Author(s):
Atinuke Ogunjesa, Oluwatoyin Folake Alamuoye.
Page No : 1-8
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Characterization of Turmeric and West African Black Pepper as Potential Livestock Feed Additives.
Abstract
Phytochemicals, derived from plants such as turmeric and West African black pepper (WABP), have drawn attention as natural feed additives in animal nutrition. These bioactive compounds possess anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. However, their concentration in these plants vary across geographical locations, hence the need for location-specific characterization which would produce more accurate applications in livestock feeding. This study was therefore aimed at determining the proximate and phytochemical compositions of turmeric rhizomes and WABP seeds cultivated in Southwestern Nigeria.
These rhizomes and seeds were separately cleaned of debris, solar dried and pulverized, after which each sample was subjected to laboratory analysis for proximate and phytochemical compositions using the AOAC (2005) and phytochemical screening methods respectively. Results showed that turmeric rhizomes contained 14.63±0.27% moisture, 9.35±0.35%ash, 5.16±0.00% crude fat, 13.70±0.35% crude fibre, 5.95±0.25% crude protein and 51.22±0.02% carbohydrate. It also contained 30.48±0.08mg/g flavonoids, 68.76±0.49mg/g Alkaloids, 57.70±0.42mg/g phenols, 12.12±0.18mg/g tannins, 16.12±0.04 mg/g saponins and 4.08±0.03mg/g curcumin. West African Black pepper seeds also contained 11.82±0.25% moisture, 5.21±1.32% ash, 9.19±2.69% crude fat, 9.88±0.20% crude fibre, 9.88±0.62% crude protein and 54.03±1.54% carbohydrate. Its phytochemical contents were 57.70±0.42mg/g flavonoids, 12.12±0.18mg/g alkaloids, 6.53±0.42 mg/g phenols, 68.76±0.49mg/g tannins, 30.48±0.08mg/g saponins and 9.58±0.21mg/g piperine.
The results of this study give background information on the constituents of Nigerian-grown turmeric and WABP, thus supporting quality control studies for establishment of effective and safe doses of Curcuma longa and piper guineense for inclusion in livestock diet.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Patricia Onyemowo Abah (Ph.D.), Oka Ene Abah.
Page No : 9-20
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Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Improved Nutrition in Nigeria.
Abstract
Based on the mandate of Sustainable Development Goals 2 (SDG2), that food security in every nation must be achieved by 2015, the objective of this paper is to investigating the effect of sustainable agriculture and food security on improved nutrition in Nigeria. Using content analysis and drawing out causal mechanisms with systematic evaluation, this study reveals the various dimensions of sustainable agriculture and food security in Nigeria, breaking down their elements into systems as drawn from the existing literature, and critically linking them to improved nutrition. The study therefore found out that for a sustainable agriculture and food security to be attained, there must be an interaction between the natural biological cycle and control, optimized management and use of farm resources, protect and renew soil fertility and natural resources, make use of non-renewable energy, purchase productive input and provide human security, and promote opportunity in family farming community to enhance the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole. The study recommends that urgent coordinated action and policy solution should be implemented to address rooted inappropriateness in food production and invest in sustainable agricultural practices to reduce and mitigate the impact of conflict and pandemic on the Nigerian food security and nutrition.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Karla Daniela Pabón Ortega, Daniel Alejandro Quispe Ulloa, Jessy Lizneidi Rodríguez Piedra, Luis Eduardo Ríos Salas, Jose de la Torres Moreira.
Page No : 21-30
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Relationship Between Maternal Factors, Colostrum Quality, and Weaning Weight Performance in Holstein Calves in High Andean Systems in Ecuador.
Abstract
Bovine colostrum quality plays a crucial role in the passive transfer of immunity and the early growth of calves. This research investigated how maternal factors, colostrum Brix percentage, and additional variables are associated with calf weaning weight in 34 Holstein in an altitude system in Tulcán, Ecuador. Colostrum samples were collected in the first two hours postpartum and analysed by digital refractometry. Non-parametric analysis and multiple linear regression were applied. 82.4% of the samples were classified as good quality. Surprisingly, a negative correlation was found between % Brix and weaning weight (ρ = -0.40, p = 0.02). Parity was significantly associated with colostrum quality (p = 0.0496). The regression model explained 84% of the variability in weaning weights, with birth weight, cow weight and colostrum quality being significant. These results highlight the need for comprehensive colostrum evaluation beyond % Brix.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Mvondo Nganti Dorothée, Nchange Kouotou Adamou, Mefire Nchouwat Youssouf, Manga Essouma François.
Page No : 31-51
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Comparative Agronomic Evaluation of Organic and Mineral Fertilizers Applied to Tomato (Lycopersicon Esculentum Mill.) Plots with or without Prior Soil Analysis.
Abstract
This study compares the agronomic and economic efficiency of organic (poultry manure, cow dung) and mineral (NPK) fertilizers on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) cultivation in Cameroon, with or without prior soil analysis. Results show that poultry manure significantly enhances vegetative growth (plant height, number of leaves/flowers/fruits) and yield (up to 18.15 t/ha), outperforming mineral fertilizers and cow dung. Plots with pre-fertilization soil analysis achieved optimized yields with precise nutrient application, reducing costs. Economically, poultry manure delivered the highest profitability (up to 306% return), while unanalyzed NPK plots were the least efficient. Favorable climatic conditions and volcanic soil fertility in the West region further improved outcomes. The study recommends adopting organic fertilizers combined with soil testing for sustainable and profitable agriculture.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Mofor Nelson Alakeh, Nuikweshi Yvette Ngeneform, Cornelius Tsamo.
Page No : 52-74
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Assessment of Nutritional Quality and Heavy Metal Contamination in Some Vegetables from the Mezam Division, Northwestern Region of Cameroon: Health Risk Implications.
Abstract
Vegetables are vital for nutrition, yet their nutritional quality and heavy metal content related to agricultural practices remain underexplored in the Mezam Division (MD), Northwest Region of Cameroon. This study aimed to identify prevalent agricultural practices related to soil amendments and pest management and assess the carcinogenic effects of four commonly consumed vegetables, carrot (Daucus carota ssp. sativa), cabbage (Brassica oleracea), leek (Allium ampeloprasum), and tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), which were grown in three localities within the MD. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather information on farmers' practices, whereas standard analytical methods were used to assess proximate composition, vitamin C content and heavy metal concentrations. Health risk assessments have investigated estimated daily intake (EDI), hazard index (HI), and target cancer risk (TCR) models. The results revealed no significant differences (P > 0.05) in proximate composition among vegetables from the different localities. The moisture content and carbohydrate content ranged from 84.032±25% to 94.750±0.23% and from 1.990±0.52% to 12.279±2.82%, respectively. The crude fibre content ranged from 1.133% to 2.685%, and the ash content ranged from 0.416±0.01% to 1.706±0.04%. The protein and vitamin C contents varied from 0.713±0.061% to 1.484±0.21% and from 5.090±0.12% to 44.900±0.06%, respectively. Chromium (0.557 to 1.318 mg/kg), cadmium (0.942 to 1.885 mg/kg), and lead (1.552 to 2.154 mg/kg) exceeded the FAO/WHO limits. HI indicated a noncarcinogenic risk greater than unity, and the TCR values surpassed the 1×10−4 threshold, suggesting that long-term consumption poses cancer risks. The results of this study underscore the need for improved agricultural practices and monitoring of heavy metal contamination in vegetables to safeguard public health in the Mezam Division.
| 6 |
Author(s):
Nweke I. A., Igili D. N., Ngonadi E. N., Uko I., Onwughalu J. T..
Page No : 75-81
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Effect of Bio-Fertilizer from Organic Residues on the Nutrient-Deficient Soil of Southeast Nigeria and Tomato Production.
Abstract
Sustainable crop yield in nutrient deficient soil under continuous cropping system is a challenge and the use of chemical fertilizer is an unsustainable option as it escalates the soil problems. The present study therefore, was carried out to evaluate the fertilizing value of bio-fertilizer from organic residues its effect on nutrient deficient soil of southeast, Nigeria and tomato production. The study was laid out in completely randomized design (CRD), three (3) treatments and four (4) replication. The bio-fertilizer evaluated were; BA – bio-fertilizer made from Bracharia grass and animal manure, BUA – bio-fertilizer made from Bracharia grass + Eupatorium residues + animal manure and CO- control soil that received no application of bio-fertilizer. The result findings indicated significant (P BUA>CO. From the findings of the study it is evident that bio-fertilizer from organic residues can be an efficient alternative soil ameliorant to chemical fertilizer for soil fertility maintenance and sustainable crop production in nutrient deficient soil of southeast, Nigeria.
| 7 |
Author(s):
Susan Momanyi-Nyasimi, Hudson Nyambaka, Judith Kimiywe.
Page No : 82-100
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Acceptability of Germinated Porridges with Micronutrient Powder Among Children (6-23 Months) in Kenya: A Parallel Site-Randomized Feeding Trial.
Abstract
Introduction
Foods prepared from germinated ingredients have lower antinutrients and thus suitable vehicles for Micronutrient powder (MNP). Unfortunately, home consumption of these food products is declining in Kenya.
Methods
Three phase acceptability study: Seven-days phase one using a cross over design, a two-week parallel site-randomized feeding trial, and a focus group discussion with caregivers.
Results
Caregivers reported significant differences in color and texture between germinated flour porridge and control porridge, but these differences did not impact overall acceptance. Significantly more non-germinated flour porridges were consumed during the sensory testing. Conversely, germinated flour sorghum porridge (p=0.003), maize (p=0.127), and millet (p=0.073) were consumed more over 2-week feeding phase. Significantly more germinated flour porridges compared to non-germinated flour porridges were consumed in the latter days compared to the initial days (p<0.001). Caregivers gave positive feedback on the germinated porridges.
Conclusion The three germinated porridges were accepted and could serve as vehicles for MNP in Homa-bay County.
| 8 |
Author(s):
Solomon Kofi Takyi, Ellen Louise Olu Fagbemi, Doreen Dedo Adi, Ernest Kwame Nyarko.
Page No : 101-115
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Assessing the Influence of Food Culture and Food Safety Knowledge of Consumers in the Ho Municipality of Volta Region, Ghana.
Abstract
This study examines how consumers in Ghana's Ho Municipality of the Volta Region are influenced by food culture and their understanding of food safety. The study uses a descriptive design and a quantitative methodology to target 950 restaurant patrons between the ages of 18 and 65. A sample size of 384 participants was chosen using a systematic sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire focused on different facets of food culture and food safety knowledge was used to gather data. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and chi-square tests were used in the analysis.
According to the results, the overall mean score for the influence of food culture on consumer safety is 2.96, with a standard deviation of 1.140. Customers' awareness of kitchen hygiene is notably high at 71.99%, while their knowledge of personal hygiene about food safety is noteworthy at 56.63%. Furthermore, sociodemographic characteristics like age, marital status, level of education, and occupation are significantly related to knowledge of food safety.
The study's findings, which point to areas for improvement in public health education and policy interventions to improve food safety practices, highlight the crucial role that food culture and safety knowledge play in consumer behaviour within the Ho Municipality.
| 9 |
Author(s):
Suchinnata S. Sardar, Sudha Suman, Saumya R. Barik, Swapan K. Tripathy.
Page No : 116-138
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Nutritional Perspective of Untapped Indigenous Finger Millet [Eleusine Coracana (L.) Gaertn.] Accessions in Millet Hotspot of Eastern Ghats, India.
Abstract
Climate change and human influence aggravate threats to balanced ecosystem, declining performance of major food crops. Finger millet (Eleusine coracana), a vital millet crop stands as a climate resilient smart crop for future. The present investigation establishes towering nutrient assemblage in 10 under-identified indigenous accessions collected from blocks of Malkangiri district located in Eastern Ghats, Odisha, India and compared with 2 improved varieties KMR-204 and Arjuna for Ca,Fe,Zn,Mg,K,Mn,P & Cu by ICP-OES. Most of the accessions have multi-fold higher nutrient contents as compared to the best studied crops declared by Food Data Central, US Department of Agriculture. The nutrient diversity confirms two major clusters at 0% phenon-level and two subclusters at 90% phenon-level. Accessions in cluster-I (Acc-3,7 and KMR-204) signifies extremely high Zn content, whereas subcluster-IIB (Acc-1,2,8,9 and Arjuna) for dehydration tolerance. These indigenous accessions collected in two subsequent years are testimony of conserved nutritional package in undisturbed ecosystem of Eastern Ghats in Malkangiri district, Odisha, India and can be utilized for crop improvement and sustainable agriculture for future.
| 10 |
Author(s):
Lamèga Madjonga, Atalaèsso Bokobana, Tchilabalo Ketetche, Yao Dodzi Dagnon, Outéndé Toundou, Damigou Bammite, Koffi Tozo.
Page No : 139-155
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Drought Stress Adaptive Responses of Six Short-Cycle Cowpea Varieties Grown in Togo.
Abstract
Drought stress is a major hindrance to cowpea cultivation. In Togo, climate fluctuations lead to sudden droughts, posing a real threat for this crop. This survey aimed to evaluate the effects of an induced water deficit in 6 short-cycle cowpea cultivars grown in Togo (Amélassiwa, Ketcheyi, Ketcheyi-Soukpelo, Malgbong-Bomoine, Siéloune, and TVX). The experimental device, under semi-controlled conditions, was a split plot (three repetitions, two treatments) with two interacting factors, varietal type and water regime. Plants in the flower initiation phase were subjected to a water deprivation of 30% of available water content (AWC) for 14 days. Plants used as control were irrigated at 70% of AWC. The fluctuations in growth parameters, total proteins, proline, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and yield variables were determined, and the data were analysed through ANOVA, Tukey HSD, and principal component analysis (PCA). The Fisher-Maurer index, or drought susceptibility index (DSI), was used to distinguish drought-tolerant from susceptible varieties. As a result, ANOVA revealed a significant effect (p 0.05). However, a negative correlation between both contents was noted. PCA revealed that varieties that exhibited higher yields were correlated with proline content, while those that showed higher productivity and MDA levels were correlated with protein content. Thus, osmotic adjustments mechanisms are important aspects to target first during variety improvements. According to DSIs and PCA, the six varieties can be divided into three categories: susceptible varieties (Ketcheyi and Amélassiwa), medium-tolerant varieties (Siéloune, Malgbong-Bomoine, and TVX), and high-tolerant varieties (Ketcheyi-Soukpelo).
