Consumer Perception of Complementary Cereal Enriched with Cricket and Mealworm Protein for Preschoolers

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Consumer Perception of Complementary Cereal Enriched with Cricket and Mealworm Protein for Preschoolers

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable and nutrient-dense food sources has led to increased interest in the use of edible insects in complementary feeding. This study evaluated the consumer acceptability and nutritional potential of a complementary cereal supplemented with cricket (Acheta domesticus) and mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) powder blends for preschool-aged children. Composite blends were formulated by enriching locally sourced cereal (e.g., maize or millet) with varying proportions of cricket and mealworm powders. The blends were assessed for organoleptic properties (taste, texture, aroma, color, and overall acceptability) using a semi-trained consumer panel of caregivers and health workers familiar with child feeding.

Results indicated that insect-supplemented cereals were generally acceptable, with up to 15% inclusion receiving favorable ratings in terms of taste and aroma. Higher inclusion levels slightly reduced acceptability due to increased insect flavor intensity. Nutritional analysis showed significant improvements in protein, iron, and zinc content, compared to the control cereal without insect supplementation. The study demonstrates the feasibility of incorporating edible insects into complementary foods as a strategy to enhance protein and micronutrient intake among preschoolers, especially in resource-limited settings.

In conclusion, cricket and mealworm powder blends can serve as a culturally adaptable and sustainable alternative to conventional animal-source proteins in complementary cereals. Further research is recommended on long-term feeding trials, safety, and shelf stability.

CHAPTER ONE:

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Adequate nutrition during the first five years of life is essential for linear growth, cognitive development and immune competence (WHO, 2023). After roughly six months of exclusive breastfeeding, children must transition to complementary foods rich in protein, bioavailable iron, zinc and essential fatty acids (UNICEF, 2022). In many low- and middle-income countries, however, the prevailing complementary foods are thin porridges prepared from maize, millet or sorghum that are dense in carbohydrates but deficient in high-quality protein and key micronutrients (Hotz & Gibson, 2007). Protein‐energy malnutrition and iron-deficiency anaemia therefore remain endemic among preschoolers in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia (Black et al., 2013).

Edible insects have emerged as a sustainable, culturally adaptable and nutrient-dense alternative to conventional animal-source foods (van Huis et al., 2013). Two insect species—crickets (Acheta domesticus) and mealworms (Tenebrio molitor)—are particularly promising because they can be mass-reared on agro-industrial by-products, require minimal water, and provide 55–70 % high-quality protein, haem iron, vitamin B₁₂ and a favourable n-6 :n-3 fatty-acid ratio (Rumpold & Schlüter, 2013; Imathiu, 2020). While entomophagy is traditional in many African and Asian societies, caregivers’ acceptance of insect-enriched complementary foods is not yet well documented, especially for preschool-age children who often resist unfamiliar flavours and textures (Anankware et al., 2015).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite advocacy for diversified complementary feeding, cost and seasonality limit regular access to meat, fish and eggs for many households (FAO, 2019). Cereal gruels therefore remain the default—even though they do not meet the recommended 15 % protein energy ratio or provide sufficient iron and zinc (Ijarotimi & Keshinro, 2012). Previous studies have demonstrated that incorporating 10–20 % cricket or mealworm powder into cereal blends can double protein and quintuple iron levels (Halloran et al., 2018). Yet nutrient gains will translate into better child outcomes only if the product is acceptable to caregivers and children. There is scant empirical evidence on (i) optimal inclusion levels for taste and appearance, (ii) caregivers’ willingness to purchase insect-fortified foods, and (iii) perceived barriers to adoption. Addressing these gaps is critical for scaling insect-based solutions in community nutrition programmes.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The broad objective is to assess consumer acceptability of a cereal-based complementary food fortified with cricket and mealworm powders for preschoolers. The specific objectives are to:

Formulate cereal blends with graded levels (0 %, 10 %, 15 %, 20 %) of cricket-mealworm powder.

Determine proximate composition (protein, fat, fibre, ash, carbohydrate) and mineral content (Fe, Zn) of each blend.

Evaluate sensory attributes—appearance, aroma, texture, taste and overall acceptability—using a panel of mothers/caregivers.

Identify socio-cultural factors influencing caregivers’ willingness to adopt insect-enriched complementary foods.

1.4 Research Questions

How does nutrient composition vary across cereal blends with different insect inclusion levels?

What sensory scores do caregivers assign to each formulation?

What is the most acceptable inclusion level of cricket-mealworm powder?

Which demographic or attitudinal factors predict caregivers’ intent to use the product?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

H₀₁: There is no significant difference in overall acceptability among the cereal blends.

H₀₂: Cricket-mealworm inclusion does not significantly increase protein or iron content compared with the control.

1.6 Significance of the Study

Practical significance—Findings will guide small-scale processors and public-health agencies on formulating affordable, nutrient-dense complementary foods that align with local taste preferences (FAO, 2019).

Scientific significance—The study adds to the limited body of literature on sensory acceptance of insect-based foods for preschoolers in West Africa (Ghosh et al., 2017).

Policy significance—Evidence generated can inform national strategies on sustainable protein sources and child-feeding guidelines (Nigerian FMOH, 2021).

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on cereal blends composed of maize and millet flours supplemented with cricket and mealworm powders. Nutrient analysis and sensory evaluation will be conducted in Ibadan North Local Government Area. The biological efficacy (growth or haemoglobin response) in children is beyond the scope.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

Complementary food: Non-breast-milk food introduced from six months to meet the infant’s additional nutrient needs.

Edible insects: Farmed cricket and mealworm powders safe for human consumption.

Sensory evaluation: Structured measurement of product attributes by human panellists using a 9-point hedonic scale.

Caregivers: Mothers or guardians responsible for feeding preschool children (2–5 years).

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