Contribution of Avocado (Persea americana) to the Nutrition of Rural Households in Burundi: The Case of Tangara Commune in Butanyerera Province

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyze the contribution of avocados to improving the nutrition of rural households in the Tangara commune by providing them protein, iron and zinc. This research was carried out in the Tangara commune, located in the Butanyerera province in northern Burundi, over a three-month period from August to October 2024. The nutrient analysis of the composition of these nutrients was conducted by Laboratory for the Analysis of Soils and Agri-Food Products of the Burundi Institute of Agricultural Sciences (ISABU). This research involved a survey of 382 households selected using a multi-stage sampling method, alongside a nutritional analysis of avocados harvested from their fields. The fruits samples analyzed were collected from four varieties: Persea americana var hass, fuerte, Persea americana var choquet and a local variety. Analysis were conducted exclusively on the fresh pulp of these avocados, the portion considered edible for human consumption. Protein content was determined using the Kjeldhal method, while iron and zinc concentration were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. The survey findings indicated that 86.9% of households owned avocado trees, and 99.48% reported consuming avocados. Among the varieties studied, nutritional analysis revealed that the fresh pulp of the local variety exhibited the highest protein and iron concentrations, with values of 2.09% for protein and 13.0 mg/kg for iron. In comparison, the highest zinc content was observed in the Fuerte variety, at 8.04 mg/kg. All avocado pulp analyzed in this study, irrespective of variety, can be considered a sources of protein and micronutrients such as iron and zinc for human nutrition. Their consumption by households in the study area contributes to the dietary intake of households by providing nutrients, including those examined in this document. These results highlight the nutritional benefits of avocado consumption by household members. From this perspective, Sustainable production of this fruit, combined with regular consumption among rural populations, would enable them to take full advantage of its nutritional benefits. Such an approach would therefore be a relevant strategy for helping to improve their nutritional status.