Comparison of nutritional composition of selected edible insects with chevon in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the nutritional and mineral composition of edible insects (EIs) at different developmental stages (nymphal, larval and adult) in comparison with chevon. Laboratory experiments conducted at the University of Calabar, Nigeria, included proximate and mineral analyses to determine the contents of moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate, energy and essential elements. The results showed that EIs contained markedly lower moisture (4%–17%) than chevon (69%) but were significantly richer in protein (up to 50% in Rynchophorus phoenicis vs 18% in chevon), carbohydrates (15%–20% vs 3%), and metabolisable energy (1 398 kJ/100 g in crickets vs 109 kJ/100 g in chevon). Macroelements were more abundant in EIs, with sodium (112 mg/100 g in Macrotermes bellicosus vs 82 mg/100 g in chevon), potassium, magnesium and calcium exceeding the levels found in chevon. Conversely, trace elements, such as zinc and iron, were generally lower in insects than in chevon. Adult insects exhibited slightly higher nutritional values than larvae or nymphs, except for crude fat, which was greater in the latter. These findings highlight the potential of EIs as nutrient-dense alternatives that can help address protein-energy malnutrition while contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2 and 3. Greater awareness, farmer training and supportive policies for insect farming are recommended to maximise their role in improving nutrition, health and sustainability.