Nutritional quality, functional properties and anti-nutrient compositions of the larva of Cirina forda (Westwood) (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae)

Abstract

Determination of the proximate, nutritionally valuable minerals and anti-nutrient compositions in larvae of Cirina forda (W) showed that they contained high levels of protein, (55.50%±1.20%) with ash, moisture, fat, and carbohydrate levels being (10.26%±0.01%), (10.85%±0.38%), (4.68%±0.01%) and (18.70%±0.84%) respectively. Fibre was not detected. Protein solubility was higher in alkaline media than in acidic media while the isoelectric points were pH 4, 6 and 9 indicating that C. forda may be useful in food formulations involving foods like meat products. Phosphorus had the highest value of (215.54±0.21) mg/100 g while manganese had the lowest value of (1.14±0.10) mg/100 g. Copper, Co, Pb, Cr and Ni were not available. Water absorption capacity was (300%±0.15%), oil absorption capacity was (358.44%±0.21%) and foaming stability was (3%±0.00%). The results of anti-nutritional analysis revealed that oxalate and phytic acid contents were (4.11±0.05) mg/100 g and (1.02±0.00) mg/100 g respectively and that these values fell within nutritionally accepted values. Tannin was not detected in C. forda. C. forda, a rich source of animal nutrients, usable in human diets and animal feeds formulations.

Nutritional and Microbial Quality of Dried Larva of Cirina forda

“…The crude protein content of 55.44% falls within the protein range of 55-60% previously reported for various forms of lepidopterous edible insects from the state of Mexico [4] and that of Cirina forda (55.5%) reported by [10]. However, the value was higher than the protein value (33.12%) of Cirina forda reported by [7].…”

“…Although some reports have been written on edible insects, [9,10,11,12] little information is available on the nutritional quality and none on the microbiology of pallid emperor moth consumed in Makurdi metropolis, Nigeria. The result of this study will contribute to the update of the food composition database of the larva as food and aid in the usage for food product formation and development for better utilization.…”

Selected Edible Insects and Their Products in Traditional Medicine, Food and Pharmaceutical Industries in Africa: Utilisation and Prospects

“…Their short life cycles, low space requirements, efficient nutrient conversion rates and lower greenhouse gas production render insects to be, in principle, an excellent alternative to meat [5]. It is postulated that termites contain high-quality nutrients including highly digestible proteins [10], as well as minerals, which are more bioavailable than minerals from plant foods [11]. Crickets in particular are believed to have higher quality animal protein than some conventional sources, such as fish, and are more affordable among poor communities [12].…”

A Comprehensive Look at the Possibilities of Edible Insects as Food in Europe – A Review

“…For insects that feed on a single food plant, the values are probably typical for all members of the species, in contrast, the fatty acid content of generalist feeders such as the house cricket, A. domesticus, is likely to vary widely depending on the diet being fed [Finke, 2004]. Lipids are vital in the structural and biological functioning of the cells and help in the transport of nutritionally essential fat-soluble vitamins [Omotoso, 2006]. Especially those of the omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) have played an important role in human evolution, providing essential elements to build cerebral tissues [Crawford et al, 2000;Carlson & Kingston, 2007].…”