Evaluation of Nutritional Values and Estimated Daily Intakes of Attiéké Enriched with Leaves of Moringa oleifera L., Rhizomes of Curcuma longa L. and Almonds of Anacardium occidentale L. among Adult Ivoirien Population

Abstract

The Attiéké (steamed cassava semolina) has become one of the most consumed foods in several African countries, particularly in Ivory Coast. However, due to its nutritional composition, attiéké is essentially an energy food that is low in proteins and essential nutrients. Enriching attiéké with other local agricultural products of high nutritional value such as Moringa oleifera leaves, turmeric (Curcuma longa), and cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale) represents a promising approach in the fight against protein-energy malnutrition. The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional values and the estimated daily intakes of nutrients from enriched agbodjama attiéké with concentrates of Moringa oleifera leaves, turmeric rhizomes, and cashew kernel paste in the adult Ivorian population. The nutrient composition of 15 composite agbodjama attiéké formulations obtained using a central composite design, along with a control attiéké, was determined according to standardized laboratory methods. In addition, the daily intakes and their contribution to meeting essential nutrient requirements were estimated according to the Codex Alimentarius method. Analysis of the enriched agbodjama attiéké showed moisture levels of around 44 % compared to 45.52±0.35 % DM for the control attiéké. The results also showed that the composite agbodjama attiéké (MCA) significantly (P < 0.001) differed by their higher contents in most of the studied nutrients, with values of 5.53±0.21 g/100 g protein, 0.73±0.12 g/100 g lipids, 1.97 g/100 g ash, 1.22±0.52 g/100 g fiber, and 343.17±0.17 kcal/100 g energy value. The estimated nutrient intakes from consuming 301 g of enriched agbodjama attiéké were higher than those obtained with the control attiéké, except for total carbohydrates which were more abundant in the control. Daily nutrient intakes for an adult consumer were estimated at 16.53±0.1 g/day protein, 1.95±0.03 g/day lipids, 274.18±0.43 g/day carbohydrates, 3.60±0.06 g/day fiber, and 1031.78±0.75 kcal/day energy. This represents contributions of about 27 %, 2 %, 99 %, 14 %, and 37 % respectively towards the recommended daily intakes for proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, fiber, and energy. These enriched attiéké products could be considered as an alternative in the fight against protein-energy malnutrition by significantly contributing to the nutritional needs of vulnerable populations. This study also highlights the need to take into account the contribution to meeting micronutrient requirements (essential minerals and vitamins).