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

摘要

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.