Abstract

Three forms of Encosternum delegorguei consumed in Nerumedzo community, Bikita, Zimbabwe were analysed for their nutritional composition. Protein, fat, ash and mineral content were determined for the preprocessed, well prepared and spoiled bugs. The proximate composition and minerals of the insects were determined using standard methods. One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used in analyzing data. They were found to contain 30-36% protein; 51-53% fat and 1-1.5% ash respectively. Spoiled bugs contained the lowest protein content of 30.76±0.98% and highest amount of magnesium of 120±2.2 mg/100g while the preprocessed and well processed contained 110±2.5 mg/100g and 112±2.4 mg/100g respectively. Phosphorous was the most abundant in all forms with a value of 570-575 mg/100g. Calcium levels for all the three forms showed an overall mean of 85-89 mg/100g. Among the trace elements, iron was the most abundant (19-22 mg/100g). Roasting increased the protein, ash and magnesium content. The findings suggest the consumption of E. delegorguei is not only based on its cultural and medical roles claimed by the community, but also on the nutrients present.

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