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Research Article
Influence of Maternal Feeding Practices and Associated Factors on the Nutritional Status of Children Aged 6 to 59 Months in Koza (Far North, Cameroon)
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2026
Pages:
108-116
Received:
19 February 2026
Accepted:
28 February 2026
Published:
10 March 2026
Abstract: Malnutrition remains a major public health concern in Cameroon. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of maternal feeding practices and related factors on the nutritional status of children aged 6 to 59 months in Koza, Far North Cameroon, a region that has been affected for several years by the Boko Haram conflict. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 200 children aged 6 to 59 months and their mothers. Participants were randomly recruited after verification of their place of residence. Children’s anthropometric measurements were taken, and height-for-age and weight-for-age indices were calculated based on WHO growth standards. Children’s feeding practices, as well as mothers’ dietary habits and sociodemographic characteristics, were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Mothers’ body mass index was also calculated according to WHO criteria. The chi-square test was used to examine associations between the different variables. Among the 200 children included in the study, 39% were underweight (21% in the severe form) and 47.5% were stunted (19% in the severe form). A significant association was found between age group and underweight (P= 0.03), as well as stunting (P= 0.04). The type of breastfeeding was also significantly associated with the occurrence of underweight (P= 0.02) and stunting (P= 0.03) among the children. The age at which complementary foods were introduced was significantly associated with underweight (P= 0.03). Maternal characteristics including age group (P= 0.005), nutritional status (P< 0.001), marital status (P= 0.02), and employment status (P< 0.001) were significantly associated with child underweight. An association was also observed between stunting and maternal age (P= 0.03). The prevalence of chronic malnutrition among children in Koza was higher than the national average of 33% and the 40.2% reported in the North Region of Cameroon. Strengthening nutrition education and promoting appropriate complementary food formulations could help reduce this burden.
Abstract: Malnutrition remains a major public health concern in Cameroon. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of maternal feeding practices and related factors on the nutritional status of children aged 6 to 59 months in Koza, Far North Cameroon, a region that has been affected for several years by the Boko Haram conflict. A cross-section...
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Research Article
Extraction Yield and Physicochemical Quality of Artisanal Palm Oil Produced in Koba–Totema, Guinea
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2026
Pages:
117-126
Received:
23 February 2026
Accepted:
9 March 2026
Published:
26 March 2026
Abstract: This study investigated the production performance and physicochemical characteristics of palm oil obtained through artisanal processing in Koba–Totema, Boffa (Republic of Guinea). Eight independent processing batches involving 80 mature oil palm fruit bunches were carried out under traditional extraction conditions. Extraction efficiency was estimated as the percentage ratio between the mass of oil obtained and the mass of processed fruits. The physicochemical quality of the oil was evaluated using standard analytical methods. Moisture content and insoluble impurities were determined by gravimetric techniques, while peroxide value was measured by iodometric titration and expressed in meq O2/kg of oil. Acid value was determined by titration with potassium hydroxide (KOH) and expressed in mg KOH/g of oil according to standard calculation procedures. The average extraction yield was 16%, reflecting a moderate but relatively stable extraction performance. Mean values recorded for moisture content, peroxide value, acid value, and insoluble impurities were 0.43 ± 0.26%, 13.05 ± 1.92 meq O2/kg, 12.47 ± 9.94 mg KOH/g, and 2.74 ± 2.14%, respectively. While extraction yields remained fairly consistent across batches, notable variations were observed in chemical quality parameters. These differences appear to be mainly related to variations in clarification, dehydration, and filtration practices during artisanal processing. Overall, the results highlight the importance of improving post-extraction handling and processing practices to enhance the chemical stability and quality of artisanal palm oil.
Abstract: This study investigated the production performance and physicochemical characteristics of palm oil obtained through artisanal processing in Koba–Totema, Boffa (Republic of Guinea). Eight independent processing batches involving 80 mature oil palm fruit bunches were carried out under traditional extraction conditions. Extraction efficiency was estim...
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Research Article
HPLC Analysis of Ascorbic Acid Content in Four Orange Varieties in Ghana
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2026
Pages:
127-133
Received:
25 February 2026
Accepted:
13 March 2026
Published:
27 March 2026
Abstract: Oranges are one of Ghana's most popular citrus fruits and constitute an essential dietary source of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and other phytochemicals that improve human health and well-being. In spite of their importance as nutrients and economic sources, only a limited number of studies have been conducted to compare the ascorbic acid content of local orange varieties in Ghana. This study aimed to evaluate the ascorbic acid content of four local orange varieties (i.e. Abofour, Water Grape, Mediterranean Sweet and Washintong) cultivated in Ghana. 15 fresh orange fruits from each variety totaling 60 orange fruits were obtained from the Plant Genetic Resources Research Institute (PGRRI) farm in Bunso in Eastern Region, Ghana. The orange juices were manually extracted and analyzed for their ascorbic acid content using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method. The results showed the Washintong variety had the highest ascorbic acid content (4.49 mg/10 mL), followed by Abofour (4.31 mg/10 mL), Water Grape (4.28 mg/10 mL), and Mediterranean Sweet (3.70 mg/10 mL). The study analyzed the ascorbic acid content in four local orange varieties. The findings highlight the nutritional value of each orange variety as a dietary source of vitamin C. The results also provides scientific evidence for agricultural policy, nutrition education, and value-added strategies for the promotion of vitamin C rich orange fruits for consumers’ health in Ghana.
Abstract: Oranges are one of Ghana's most popular citrus fruits and constitute an essential dietary source of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and other phytochemicals that improve human health and well-being. In spite of their importance as nutrients and economic sources, only a limited number of studies have been conducted to compare the ascorbic acid content of ...
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Research Article
Postprandial Glycaemic Response to a Tempeh-based Functional Food Among Non-diabetic, Diabetic, and Tuberculosis Patients with Diabetes in Indonesia
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2026
Pages:
134-143
Received:
3 March 2026
Accepted:
16 March 2026
Published:
30 March 2026
Abstract: Tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) comorbidity presents a growing nutritional challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Adequate protein intake is essential for TB recovery, while postprandial glycaemic control remains critical for individuals with DM. Tempeh-based foods may serve as culturally acceptable functional foods with favourable metabolic effects. This study aimed to describe postprandial glycaemic response patterns following consumption of a tempeh-based functional food (ATemp) among non-diabetic, diabetic, and TB patients with diabetes. A quasi-experimental observational study was conducted in Bandung, Indonesia, involving 178 adults classified into non-diabetic (n=100), diabetic (n=50), and TB–DM (n=28) groups. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and 2-hour postprandial glucose (2h-PPG) levels were measured after ATemp consumption. Glycaemic responses were analysed descriptively across groups. Mean fasting glucose levels were 83.7 ± 10.6 mg/dL in non-diabetic participants, 170.4 ± 67.6 mg/dL in diabetic participants, and 156.6 ± 75.2 mg/dL in TB–DM participants. Postprandial glucose levels demonstrated modest incremental changes across all groups. Despite elevated baseline glucose in diabetic and TB–DM participants, postprandial glycaemic excursions following ATemp consumption remained limited. Consumption of a tempeh-based functional food was associated with a favourable postprandial glycaemic response across different metabolic conditions. These findings support the potential role of tempeh-based functional foods in nutritional management strategies for diabetes and TB–DM comorbidity.
Abstract: Tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes mellitus (DM) comorbidity presents a growing nutritional challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Adequate protein intake is essential for TB recovery, while postprandial glycaemic control remains critical for individuals with DM. Tempeh-based foods may serve as culturally acceptable functional foo...
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Research Article
A Study to Assess the Biochemical Composition and Nutritional Potential of Desert Date Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp of Northern Region (Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire)
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2026
Pages:
144-150
Received:
24 February 2026
Accepted:
6 March 2026
Published:
2 April 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15
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Abstract: Balanites aegyptiaca is a perennial tropical plant belonging to the Balanitaceae family. It is mainly used for its leaves and fruit. The fruit contains edible pulp that is an important food source for humans. Although this fruit is used by local populations for its therapeutic properties, few studies have been conducted on the nutritional potential and phytonutrients composition of the fruit pulp. The aim of this study is to contribute to the promotion of this local plant resource in the diet of populations in northern region of Côte d'Ivoire by the biochemical characterizing and determination of nutritional potential of its pulp. 200g of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit were purchased from three markets in the city of Korhogo. The fruit was carefully sorted to remove damaged fruit, post-harvest plant debris, and other foreign matter. The fruit was then washed and drained. The different parts were separated manually into the outer layer (pericarp), pulp (mesocarp), and inner layer (endocarp). The pulp was extracted using a stainless steel knife and then ground using a blender. The moisture, fat, ash, crude fibers, protein, and carbohydrate (by difference) contents were determined using the AOAC methods. The mineral content was determined by spectrometry. Total phenolics content and total flavonoids were determined using standard spectrophotometric methods. Results of biochemical analysis show that the moisture content of fruit pulp is 36.4% and amounts of fat is 0.2%. Ash content and crude fibers content are 6% and 1.35% respectively and protein content is moderate (4.54%). Total carbohydrates are the components present in large quantities in the pulp (51.51%). The caloric intake gave a value of 226.0 Kcal/100g. The pulp of the Balanites aegyptiaca fruit is rich in minerals such as potassium (505.2 mg/100g), magnesium (3.4 mg/100g), zinc (1.6 mg/100g), sodium (14 mg/100g), and phosphorus (11.5 mg/100g). Calcium and iron are presents in low contents (< 0,14 mg/100g). The Na/K ratio obtained in this work is about 0.03. Results of phytonutrients composition of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp indicate that the pulp is particularly rich in total polyphenols (21.01 mg GAE/g ± 0.27), while moderate amounts of flavonoids (3.14 mg QE/g ± 0.10).
Abstract: Balanites aegyptiaca is a perennial tropical plant belonging to the Balanitaceae family. It is mainly used for its leaves and fruit. The fruit contains edible pulp that is an important food source for humans. Although this fruit is used by local populations for its therapeutic properties, few studies have been conducted on the nutritional potential...
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Research Article
Consumers’ Proposals for Food Service in Portugal
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2026
Pages:
151-161
Received:
4 March 2026
Accepted:
16 March 2026
Published:
13 April 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.16
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Abstract: Introduction: Meals served in the Food Service industry represent a significant part of the daily diet of many consumers, including at least one of their main meals. Changes in the needs and expectations of both customers and consumers have led to the evolution of the sector. Gaining in-depth insight into the consumer perspective is a huge competitive advantage for companies. Aim: To analyse consumers’ proposals for the future of food service in Portugal, aiming to identify changes to be implemented in the industry from the consumers’ perspective. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among Portuguese adults with experience in food service. The questionnaire included closed and open-ended questions and was distributed on paper and online in 2020 and 2021. The online version was disseminated by email, through social media, in food service companies and the food service industry, and the paper version was sent to some food service companies. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and qualitative content analysis was applied to open-ended responses. Results and Discussion: Consumers’ proposals for products are meals with fresh, regional/local, sustainable, organic products that are nutritionally balanced. Regarding services, consumers suggest environmentally friendly spaces, portion sizes adjusted to consumers’ needs, services of meals made to order and convenience services. Consumers mainly suggest improving products and services, but also new products and services and human resources. Overall, the proposals identified in this study are consistent with several global megatrends, particularly ethical living, healthier lifestyles and new ways of shopping. In the Portuguese context, these trends are reflected in consumers’ preference for fresh and sustainably produced foods, the growing demand for convenience services such as takeaway and Grab and Go options, and the increasing interest in personalised or made-to-order meals. These results also suggest the emergence of premiumization, through the preference for higher-quality ingredients, and the influenced of connected consumers, reflected in the demand for digital ordering systems and customised services. Conclusions/Originality: The outcome of this research is to provide important information enabling the food service industry to remain updated and competitive in the market.
Abstract: Introduction: Meals served in the Food Service industry represent a significant part of the daily diet of many consumers, including at least one of their main meals. Changes in the needs and expectations of both customers and consumers have led to the evolution of the sector. Gaining in-depth insight into the consumer perspective is a huge competit...
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Research Article
Evaluation of Subchronic Oral Stevia Supplementation on Haematological Parameters and Serum Metabolic Profile in Male Wistar Rats
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2026
Pages:
162-169
Received:
19 March 2026
Accepted:
30 March 2026
Published:
13 April 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.17
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Views:
Abstract: The rising global burden of metabolic disorders has driven increased consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners like stevia as sugar substitutes. While purified steviol glycosides are generally recognised as safe, commercially available stevia products often contain multiple additional ingredients whose combined effects remain inadequately characterised. This study evaluated the subchronic effects of a commercial stevia sweetener on haematological and metabolic parameters in healthy male Wistar rats. Fifteen (15) adult male Wistar (180-200 g) rats were randomly assigned to three groups (n=5 per group): control (distilled water), low-dose stevia (200 mg/kg), and high-dose stevia (400 mg/kg). Treatments were administered daily by oral gavage for eight weeks. Haematological parameters were analysed using an automated haematology analyser, while lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, and insulin were measured spectrophotometrically using standard kits. Stevia supplementation significantly reduced packed cell volume at both doses (p<0.05). The 400 mg/kg dose increased total white blood cell count and reduced platelet count (p<0.05). Monocyte and eosinophil percentages increased at 400 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg, respectively (p<0.05). Metabolically, both doses significantly reduced insulin levels and HOMA-IR values while paradoxically elevating fasting blood glucose (p<0.05). The 400 mg/kg dose significantly increased total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins (p<0.05). Evidence from the present study has shown that subchronic commercial stevia supplementation improved insulin sensitivity in healthy rats but concurrently induced haematological and metabolic stress, manifesting as reduced packed cell volume, leukocytosis, hyperglycaemia, and dyslipidaemia. These findings underscore the critical influence of dose and duration context and highlight the need for stevia-based products formulated with fewer potentially harmful additives. The dissociation between improved insulin sensitivity and worsened metabolic control suggests that multiple ingredients may exert opposing effects, warranting further investigation into commercial formulations rather than assuming equivalence to purified steviol glycosides.
Abstract: The rising global burden of metabolic disorders has driven increased consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners like stevia as sugar substitutes. While purified steviol glycosides are generally recognised as safe, commercially available stevia products often contain multiple additional ingredients whose combined effects remain inadequately characteris...
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,
William Asongni Djeukeu
