ABSTRACT COMPENDIUM
Global Food and Nutrition Security
Linking Agriculture, Nutrition, and Health Conference 2013 - From Field to Fork:
Improving Human Nutrition in Vulnerable Societies using an Agro-Systems Approach,
February 6-8, 2013, University of Saskatchewan
Oral Presentations February 7, 2013
Keynote Speaker
Linking agriculture and nutrition link: issues and opportunities
Florence Egal
Nutrition Division of Food and Agriculture Organization, FAO
Healthy diets are a prerequisite to good nutrition. Consumers must therefore have access to the
combination of foods they need throughout the year and to the information required to orient
their decisions. This food must be locally available and they must be able to obtain it. All over
the world, the poorest households have limited choice and access to information.
Sustainable improvements in nutrition will require an integrated approach combining short term
and long term interventions. If public health interventions can be standardized to some extent,
sustainable and resilient food systems will have to take into account local specificities, whether
cultural. ecological or economical and integrate rural-urban linkages. Agriculture and health
must take the lead in promoting integration of sectoral interventions at local level.
The health sector has been confronting the clinical implications of the different forms of
malnutrition and has taken the lead in addressing its consequences. But it cannot deal alone with
the causes of malnutrition and cannot provide sustainable response and prevention. Hence its key
responsibility in terms of advocacy to the other sectors.
The food and agriculture sector must move beyond the value chain approach to incorporate
environment and social equity concerns. In order to become “nutrition-sensitive” it must put
people and what they consume first. It must move beyond national planning to a propoor and
locally sustainable development approach, promoting sustainable management of natural
resources - and in particular local biodiversity - for balanced diets and income-generation.
Researchers must provide the evidence required for decision-making. Research must move
beyond biological sciences and become inter-disciplinary (sociologists, environmental experts,
economists, health practitioners). It must review validate local practices for practice-based
evidence.
The time is now, given the increased momentum on joint approaches to fight malnutrition at
country level, in both developed and developing countries.
Session I
Soil quality and sustainable agricultural production for improved nutrition outcomes
Fran Walley1, Sheleme Beyene2, Endalkachew Wolde-meskel2
1
College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan, 2College of Agriculture, Hawassa
University, PO Box 5, Hawassa, Ethiopia
Ethiopia is one of the oldest agrarian cultures in sub-Saharan Africa with agriculture providing
the back-bone for the economy, accounting for approximately 46% of the GDP. Agriculture is
the major occupation for approximately 85% of the rapidly growing population. Estimates
indicate that the population in Ethiopia grew from 65.5 million in 2000 to 91.1 million in 2012.
With a steadily increasing population, significant pressure is being put on the soil resource to
support agricultural activities and sustain food production. Significant challenges are emerging.
Specifically, the increasing population is forcing farmers to clear land in relatively unstable areas
such as hillslopes in the highlands, leading to wide spread erosion and subsequent loss of land
base. The Ethiopian highlands cover 40% of the land-mass, but accounts for 95% of cultivated
land, and thus productivity losses in these areas are of great concern. Additionally, continuous
cropping without adequate fertility inputs has resulted in reduced soil fertility and has
compromised long-term sustainability. Our project aims to enhance the production potential of
soils in the highlands by enhancing nitrogen (N) inputs via biological N fixation. By enhancing
N inputs into existing farming systems, we hope to improve protein production, and enhance the
N returns to the soil. We recognize the link from soil quality, through food production, to human
health, and hope to achieve an improvement in human nutrition and health through improved soil
health.
Using pulse to double crop as a means of enhance food and nutrition security
Bunyamin Tar’an
College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan
Chickpea is mostly grown in the northern Ethiopia covering an area of more than 200,000
hectares in 2011. Chickpea which fixes atmospheric nitrogen and thus improves soil fertility can
be grown using residual moisture following the main season crop, thus, it may provide nitrogen
source for subsequent crops, additional food source and income. To date, chickpea is not
considered as a viable option for crop rotation in the southern region of Ethiopia. The research
was conducted in 2011 and 2012 to identify the best chickpea variety and to develop
management practices and appropriate sowing dates across different regions in Southern
Ethiopia that will allow the use of chickpea as a secondary crop after the main crop was
harvested. The research identified early maturing cultivars with acceptable yield potential that
would be suitable for use as a subsequent crop after maize or cereal. No significant yield
differences among all the chickpea cultivars tested in response to nitrogen fertilizer and
rhizobium inoculation; or across different sowing dates.
The second research examined the potential of snap bean under low input conditions. Snap bean
has become one of the most important vegetable crops grown for both export and local markets
in Ethiopia. It is mostly grown under irrigation from October to April in the Rift Valley region.
There is no information whether the productivity and quality of the current varieties will be
similar under rainfed conditions (June – August period) across different agroecologies of
Ethiopia. The two year (2011-2012) research demonstrated that it is feasible to produce snap
bean under rainfed conditions with quality comparable to that under irrigation. Locally bred
varieties showed higher yield potential than those introduced varieties; although the introduced
varieties had superior quality. Rhizobium inoculation increased yield significantly as compared
to control. The research demonstrated that production of snap bean under rainfed is feasible
depending on the suitability of the varieties and areas.
Response of yield and yield parameters of chickpea varieties to sowing date and rhizobia
inoculation under different agro ecologies of Ethiopia.
Molla Mengistua,Walelign Workua, Bunyamin Tara’nb, Fran Walleyb
a
Hawassa University-Ethiopia;b University of Saskatchewan-Canada
Lack of appropriate crop management and insufficient adoption of improved chickpea varieties
were common problems for chickpea production in the southern EthiopiaThe research was
conducted to examine the response of five chickpea varieties to agronomic practices including
seeding time and inoculation with nitrogen fixing bacteria. It is expected that the research will
contribute to food security through increased pulse production for human nutrition.
The experiment was conducted in three sites Halaba, Wolaita, and Butajira. Five chickpea
varieties of three desi (Natoli, Worku and local cultivar) and two kabuli types (Habru and Ejere)
were used in trials 2011 and 2012. The first experiment focused on testing the five varieties
under three sowing times whereas the second experiment was done to evaluate the response of
five chickpea varieties under rihizobium inoculation and without inoculation. The 2011
inoculation trial was followed by a chickpea-wheat rotation to evaluate how much nitrogen is
available for the succeeding crop.
Results from 2011 indicated that the kabuli variety Habru took 100 days to mature and 32 days
for flowering whereas the late desi type Natoli took 110 days to mature and 45 days to flower
which indicates that late flowering has more risk when the moisture is less coupled with high
temperature in crop production. In general the two improved varieties (Habru and Ejere) have
shown that even under late seeding time produce more yield (21 & 8 % respectively)and mature
early than the traditional variety. In the case of inoculation trial the variety Habru gave 1.7
tons/ha under inoculation and 1.8 tons/ha without inoculation compared to the local variety
which gave 1.7 tons under inoculation and 1.6 without inoculation although statistically no
significant difference was observed. This is important for crop rotation practice which improves
the soil fertility while providing reasonable yield (1.7 tons/ha) after harvesting the preceding
crop.
Session II
Appropriate Processing of Pulses in Nutritional Interventions
R.T. Tyler
Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK
The content of protein and lysine in pulse crops (grain legumes) has long made them important
sources of dietary protein for humans. More recently, the functional and health benefits of pulses
resulting from their content of dietary fibre, phytochemicals and prebiotics have been
recognized. Micronutrient deficiencies are of concern in the Sahel region of Africa and
elsewhere, and here again pulses stand to play an important role in nutritional interventions.
Associated biofortification strategies need to consider not just the levels of iron, zinc, folic acid,
etc. in pulse crops, but also their availability, as pulses are known to contain phytic acid, enzyme
inhibitors and other antinutritional factors. Food processing is an important consideration, and
simple, water- and energy-efficient household-level processing strategies which will improve
availability, such as germination, fermentation, and thermal treatment, need to be developed. On
a broader scale, food processing has great potential to improve food security, quality and safety
in developing countries. Achieving maximum impact will require development of appropriate
processing strategies that are both inexpensive and efficient, in contrast to fractionation protocols
applied to pulses in North America and Europe.
Influence of Rhizobium Inoculation and Applied Nitrogen on Nodulation and yield of Snap
Beans Under Rain Fed Conditions
Hussien Mohammed Beshir1,2, Bizuayehu Tesfaye2, and Bunyamin Tar’an1
1
Department of Plant Sciences University of Saskatchewan, 2School of Plant and Horticultural Sciences, Hawassa
University
In Ethiopia, snap bean is one of economically most important vegetable crops grown for both
export and local markets. Information on effective Rhizobium strain and snap bean production is
lacking in Ethiopia. The study was conducted for two years (2011 and 2012) during the main
rainy seasons at three sites, Hawassa, Zeway and Debrezeit with the objective to test the
response of eight snap bean genotypes to low input production system using Rhizobium
inoculation under rain fed conditions. Two of the tested varieties are developed locally by
Melkassa Agricultural Research Center. The remaining are introduced commercial varieties
normally produced under irrigated conditions. The varieties were combined with three sources
of nitrogen (No N, N 100kg/ha and Rhizobium inoculation). Nodulation and yield parameters
were taken during flowering and harvesting periods. There were significant differences across
locations and among varieties for nodule number, effective nodules, nodule diameter and nodule
dry weight. The result of the experiment further indicated that Rhizobium inoculation and
straight applied nitrogen improves the yield of snap bean pod by about 10% and 35% in 2011
and 23% and 46.5% in 2012 respectively, compared to control.
Economic Aspects of the Greening of the Green Revolution in South West Nigeria
Richard Watuwaa , T.O. Boumanb , Dana Mountc , Ayanwale Adeolud and Agbola Petere
a
Department of Financial and Information Management, Cape Breton University, Canada, bDepartment of Biology,
Cape Breton University, Canada, cDepartment of Languages and Letters, Cape Breton University, Canada,
d
Department of Agricultural Economics, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, eDepartment of
Agricultural Economics, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria
Food security can be defined in qualitative and quantitative terms. For the purpose of the project
on under-utilized indigenous vegetables (UIV) in South West Nigeria, a qualitative definition of
food security emphasizes crop diversification as a means to ensuring healthy human nutrition
and to sustaining farm productivity in the face of global environmental change and regional
urbanization. A baseline survey, conducted in 2011-12, has provided an initial insight into agroecological and socioeconomic conditions of the agricultural sector. The survey reveals the
nature of economic activity; the asset base and resource access for farmers and highlights the
role of vegetable production in the economy. Preliminary data confirm that the main form of
farming pertaining to UIVs is smallholder farming. The farming system, though complex due to
adaptation to limited resources, is characterized by low productivity, low capital intensity, and
inefficiency. The central role of economic analysis in success and scaling up of the UIV project
is to bring out the economic conditions for a dynamic, sustainable and transformative growth of
smallholder vegetable farming subsequent to the introduction of new varieties and new
technologies. The factors that stand out in the project area are market access and pressure on
natural resources. Market access with high farm-gate prices is likely to induce increased
production subject to availability of land and farming technology. The role of the supply side
constraints is also investigated, covering access to capital, inputs for production, and the ability
of farmers to bear risk. The policy challenge is to take improvements in farming beyond switches
in land and labor use to new and more profitable crops and small increases in use of capital to a
real transformation of the rural economy.
System sensitivity and coping capacity: the effect of household characteristics and access
conditions on wild edible plant (WEP) consumption in the semi-arid midlands of Kenya.
Stephanie Shumsky and Gordon M. Hickey
Department of Natural Resource Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University
Food insecurity and malnutrition are issues that affect approximately one in seven people
worldwide, while population growth, rising consumption and climate change threaten to increase
risks of hunger in the future. Many of the interventions and policies designed to address future
food systems emphasize resilience - a combination of flexibility in the face of disturbance and
the capacity to adapt to change. Unfortunately, much of the world population relies on vulnerable
livelihood systems which lack resilience and also tend to be highly sensitive, forcing
communities to use coping strategies of varying effectiveness. Wild Edible Plants (WEPs) are
one such coping strategy, shown in other studies to supplement protein and vitamins, improve
palatability of staple foods, reduce spending of limited cash income and provide an emergency
net function in times of drought or famine. This research conducted in rural Eastern Province,
Kenya suggests that certain household types rely more heavily on WEPs, with consumption
frequency fluctuating based on demographic characteristics related to system sensitivity and
access conditions that correspond to adaptive capacity. Furthermore, the data shows that the
motivations driving consumption, such as taste, vitamin content and hunger, vary by household
variables and harvest location. Protecting and promoting sustainable use of WEPs could increase
the current contribution of these valuable resources to household food security, especially if
policies can be tailored for the groups that depend on them the most, considering both
consumption frequency and the nutrition benefits obtained.
Effects of Different Pre-treatments on the Nutritional and Antinutritional Contents of
Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter Leaf).
O.O Ojoa,, K.A. Taiwoa, M. Scalonb, D. J. Oyedelec, O.C. Adebooyed, T. O. Boumane and
O.O. Akinremif
a
Department of Food Science and Technology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria;
Department of Food Science and Agriculture, University of Manitoba, Canada; cDepartment of Soil Science, OAU,
Ile-Ife, Nigeria. dDepartment of Agronomy, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria; eDepartment of Biology, Cape
Breton University, Sydney, Nova Scotia , Canada; fDepartment of Soil Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg,
Canada
b
This study evaluated the effect of different pretreatments and time of processing that ensures
minimal losses on selected minerals, vitamin B complex and maximal losses of anti- nutritional
contents of Vernonia amygdalina. The processing methods used were boiling, squeeze washing
with and without salt and/or trona for 10, - 20 minutes; and by blanching with and without salt
and/or trona for 20, - 40 minutes. Untreated Vernonia amygdalina was used as control. The result
of the study showed that untreated samples had mineral contents of 1081 mg/100g Ca, 4123.1
mg /100 g K, and 250.94 mg /100 g Mg, 302.19 mg /100 g P, 40.29 mg /100g Fe, 14.37 mg /100
g Mn, 36.72 % Protein, 16.38 mg / kg vitamin B1, 27.43 mg/kg B2, 8.72 mg / kg B6, 14.03
mg/kg B12 and anti- nutritional content of 29.21 mg/g Tannin, 46.69 mg/g of total phenol and
4.6 % oxalates. The mineral content of the vegetable was significantly decreased (p< 0.05) by
various pre-treatments and time of processing with the exception of Ca which showed an
increase of 7.3 % to 25 % with the boiling treatments. Percentage reduction was minimal on K
content of the vegetables boiled with trona (25.7 to 35.1%) compared with (44.8 to 55.7%)
reduction in other pretreatment. However, the various pretreatments caused a significant
decrease of 15 - 40 % in the content of vitamin B1, B2, B6 and B12 with highest reduction of 50
to 80 % in the sample boiled with trona. The result of anti-nutritional content followed the same
trend with vitamin B complex. Comparatively, blanching without the addition of substances
appeared to be the best pretreatment that ensured minimum nutritional loss. Various pretreatment
methods and times of processing caused a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the nutrient and antinutrient of Vernonia amygdalina.
Session III
Improving food and nutrition security in the Caribbean: Linkages among agricultural, health
and social science
L. E. Phillip1, I. Granderson2, W. Isaac2, T. Thompson-Colón1, A. S. Saint Ville1, G. M.
Hickey1, S. Borucki1, A. Hosein3, S. Laszlo1, K. Gray-Donald1, C. A. Madramootoo1
1
McGill University, Montreal, Canada; 2University of West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago; 3Caribbean
Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Trinidad and Tobago
A high level of dependence on import and consumption of energy-dense foods within the
Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has created a paradox of obesity and under-nutrition,
threatening food security and population health. Under the Canadian International Food Security
Research Fund, McGill University and University of the West Indies, in collaboration with
CARICOM institutional partners, undertook the “farm to fork CARICOM Project” to improve
nutrition and health of primary school children. The project is multidisciplinary, and involves a
combination of socio-economic surveys and focus group studies of household and farming
communities, agricultural technology interventions with farmers, and nutrition interventions in
school lunch programmes. The project addresses, in four CARICOM countries, problems of
water scarcity, land degradation and inefficiencies in pre- and post-harvest farming practices that
underlie inadequate production and consumption of vegetables and fruits, leading to rising
prevalence of obesity and micronutrient deficiencies in the region.
Project results from baseline surveys indicate that food insecurity among farmer households
ranges from 1% in Guyana to 9% in St. Kitts. Among consumer households studied in St. Kitts,
20% experience food insecurity. The prevalence of anaemia (haemoglobin <11.5 g/dL) among
school children in St. Kitts was 37%, with no association of this condition with food insecurity.
In Trinidad, the prevalence of anaemia in children was lower (15%) and was not explained by
dietary intake.
Seasonal limitations in production of vegetables and fruits, and meat from small ruminants, are
being addressed by introduction of drip irrigation and “protected agriculture” technologies and,
for the first time in St. Kitts, establishment and conservation (as silage for small ruminants) of
drought tolerant forages, sorghum and mulato grass. Research in St. Lucia on social capital
identified barriers to knowledge flow and innovation among farmers; these are emerging areas
for further study of constraints to food security in CARICOM countries.
Acknowledgements: This work was carried out with the aid of a grant from the International Development
Research Centre, Ottawa, Canada, and with the financial support of the Government of Canada provided through
the Canadian International Development Agency. We acknowledged the support of the McGill Institute for Global
Food Security, and are grateful for the collaboration and cooperation of our CIFSRF CARICOM Project Partners.
The Gendered Greening of the Green Revolution in Southwest Nigeria
D. Mounta, P. Johnsonb, O. T. Boumanc, R. Watuwad, F.O. Dejie, and A. Kaotharf
a
Department of Languages and Letters, Cape Breton University, Nova Scotia, Canada, b Shannon School of
Business, Cape Breton University, Nova Scotia, Canada,c Department of Biology, Cape Breton University, Nova
Scotia, Canada,d Shannon School of Business, Cape Breton University, Nova Scotia, Canada, e Department of
Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria, f Department of
Agricultural Economics and Extension, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria
For the rural family in Southwestern Nigeria, the land provides the basics of the diet, from
starchy staples such as cassava (Manihot spp) to nutrient-rich greens like ebolo (Crassocephalum
crepidioides). Typically, cassava is cultivated whereas greens are gathered by women to augment
and/or supplement the family's diet. This project asks what it would mean for rural farmers in
Southwest Nigeria if they cultivated underutilized indigenous vegetables commercially. In this
way, the project addresses the problem of heavy reliance on starches with severe nutritional
limitations, the vulnerability of single-crop production, and the lack of recognizing the critical
role of women in producing balanced diets. Overall, the goal of our project is to increase food
security and economic empowerment of resource-poor rural women farmers of Nigeria through
the utilization, cultivation, processing and preservation of under-utilized vegetable species. In its
first year, the project undertook surveyed a large number of rural households in Ekiti, Ondo,
Osun, and Oyo for profiling agronomic and socio-economic conditions in the context of food
security and dietary customs. The survey showed a greater number of households consuming
indigenous vegetables than cultivating them thereby heightening opportunities for crop
diversification. The project began the participatory testing of a select number of indigenous
vegetables in on-farm trials in its second year. Recognizing the pivotal role of women on the
farms and in feeding the large households, our project identified the need for gender-sensitivity
training of the research teams and adopting a gender equity framework. This was followed-up by
a mission to conduct gender-segregated focus groups at the village-level to assess women's
participation in this project and the impact of this project on women. It is through crop
diversification and a gendered focus that our project hopes to improve the financial standing of
resource-poor women and achieve healthy food security.
Intersections of Gender, Household Resources and Food Consumption in Rural Tanzania
Ryan Mason1 and John R Parkins2
1
Student, Augustana campus, University of Alberta, 2Resource Econ & Environmental Sociology, University of
Alberta
Sub-Saharan Africa contains the highest per capita percentage (30%) of undernourished people
in the world with evidence that food deficits will continue because of vulnerabilities to climate
change, political conflict, and other factors. Consistent with this broad trend, recent IDRCfunded survey research (n=552) in rural Tanzania indicates a lack of access to food as an
everyday reality for many small-holder farmers; with more than fifty percent of respondents
reported a degree of food insecurity. To identify factors contributing to food deficits at the
household level, this paper examines the intersections between gender and household resource
ownership with a focus on two specific variables: (1) a food consumption score (items consumed
in the household over a seven day period), and (2) a household food scarcity perception score
(based on meals over the last 30 days). Key findings indicate that control of productive resources
by women is not associated with higher levels of household food consumption. This finding,
however, appears to be confounded by the heterogeneity of household headship. Women with
control of resources are typically in situations with few adults to share household burdens and
this social context appears to be a significant factor in household food security. When
heterogeneous household structure is taken into account, a more common story of inequality
begins to emerge. Nevertheless, findings also indicate that food consumption and food scarcity
depend more on total household resources (livestock, finances, land) than on gendered control of
these resources. The paper explores these findings in relation to published literature on gender
and food security, with implications for gender-sensitive development in rural Tanzania.
Enhancing access to nutritious small millets based products for urban poor: A case study of
street food vendors in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
Kirit Patel, Ruth-Anne Seburn, David Guenther, and Kyle Wiebe
Menno Simons College, Canadian Mennonite University Winnipeg
Although India’s rapid economic and technological development is consistently improving its
position on the world stage, it continues to fall lower on the Global Food Security Index. High
levels of poverty, little public spending on small scale agricultural research, and a lack of
nutritional choices due to high subsidies for a few cash crops have all contributed to India’s
declining food security, specifically in terms of quality and safety. Development scholars and
practitioners recommend the diversification of current consumption patterns, primarily based on
subsidized rice and wheat, through the inclusion of diverse small millets and other cereals. Most
efforts for introducing small millets into mainstream diets have focused on niche markets of
urban consumers from the upper middle or elite classes. Alternatively, the majority of urban poor
rely on street food vendors for their daily food consumption. While the legal constraints and
health concerns of such vendors have been studied by some scholars, the diversity of street food
vendors and their products, nutritional value, and the opportunities for introducing nutritious
products based on small millets have not been addressed. The paper draws upon on primary data
collected, using semi structured interviews and other qualitative methods, from 90 vendors and
their consumers in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. It discusses the typology of street food vendors and the
diversity of their products based on content, preparation and status as a daily food. The paper
describes the socioeconomic conditions of street food vendors, their inspiration to start vending,
as well as the scale and management of their businesses. In order to better understand roles of
women in the street food chain, the sample included 50 per cent female vendors. Furthermore,
the study analyzes preferences and willingness of these street food vendors to include food
products prepared from small millets in their business. Finally, the challenges faced by street
food vendors for including small millets based products are analyzed to derive recommendations
for future policy and development projects.
Session IV
Beliefs and barriers to pulse consumption: A Canadian perspective
Gordon A. Zello1, Theodosia Phillips1, Albert Vandenberg2, Philip D. Chilibeck3
1
College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, 2 College of Agriculture and Bioresources, 3College of Kinesiology, University
of Saskatchewan, Canada
Plant-based diets are often advocated for chronic disease prevention and health management.
Lentils, an inexpensive plant-based meat alternative, are high in protein and micronutrients
which makes them a nutritious addition when cooking and could aid in improving both local and
global food security. However, lentil consumption is low in many countries including Canada.
In some countries where traditionally pulse-based foods have been a staple, consumption has
also declined (e.g. Ethiopia). As children are future consumers of lentils, the DAILY (Diet
Approaches to Increase Lentil Consumption in Youth) project examined, via a questionnaire
given to caregivers, benefits and barriers to lentil consumption, nutrition knowledge of pulse
foods, current lentil consumption and demographics. A convenience sample (n=401) was
obtained from six schools across different geographic locations in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The
majority of caregivers, who had a child between 3 to 11 years of age, were 26 to 45 years old
(76% female). Ninety-one percent of respondents believed that lentils were a healthy food but
58% stated they “never or rarely” consumed lentils. Of lentil non-consumers, top barriers related
to family acceptance (perceived barrier) and a lack of skill in preparing tasty lentil meals (actual
barrier) regardless of demographic variables. Knowledge scores, on average, were 73%. Lentils
were correctly identified as a protein and fibre source but 55% of caregivers could not identify
lentils as a meat alternative. The DAILY project provides practical knowledge for
dietitians/nutrition experts to be leaders in promoting a plant-based diet by providing an
understanding of the influences surrounding lentil and pulse consumption. Dietitians/nutrition
leaders can focus less on knowledge campaigns and tailor strategies to address perceived and
actual barriers through initiatives such as culinary workshops, school curriculum or cookbook
development. Understanding the existing beliefs and barriers towards pulses in the target
population, locally as well as globally, is essential before implementing messaging strategies to
increase consumption (The DAILY project is funded by the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers).
The health benefits of pulse consumption: Evidence from studies in special populations
Philip D. Chilibeck, Gordon A. Zello, and Albert Vandenberg
a
College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan; bCollege of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of
Saskatchewan; cCollege of Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan
Pulses are the seeds from the pods of legumes, and include beans, peas, chickpeas, and lentils.
Pulses have high amounts of protein, fibre, low amounts of fat, and a very low glycemic index,
making them potentially beneficial as a healthy food. We have evaluated the effects of acute and
chronic pulse consumption in populations ranging from healthy athletes (Little et al. Int. J. Sport
Nutr. Exerc. Metab. 2010; Bennett et al. Br. J. Nutr. 2012) to older hypercholesterolemic
individuals (Abeysekara et al. Br. J. Nutr. 2012). Acute pulse consumption results in lower blood
glucose and insulin levels compared to meals of higher glycemic index, matched for
macronutrients and calories. This indicates pulse-based foods may be beneficial for prevention of
type II diabetes. Chronic pulse consumption (i.e. two servings per day of 125 g of boiled pulses
per serving for 2 months) reduces total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by an
amount that is predicted to reduce risk of coronary heart disease by up to 25%. Consumption of
pulses equivalent to levels recommended from the “meat and alternatives” food group from
Canada’s food guide is beneficial for lowering risk of type II diabetes and cardiovascular
disease.
The research is supported by the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers and Agriculture and Agri-Food
Canada
Oral Presentations February 8, 2013
Session V
Pathways for Nutritional Outcomes and Indicators within Agricultural Research
Annie S. Wesley
International Development Research Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
The persistent high levels of malnutrition around the world despite the improved agricultural
productivity and economic growth shows that the problem of under-nutrition cannot be solved by
simply increasing food availability. Linkages between food production, livelihoods, nutrition and
health are complex but understanding the connection increases the potential to leverage
agriculture for nutrition. There are several pathways through which agricultural interventions can
successfully improve the nutritional status of vulnerable populations, especially women and
children. However reviews point to lost opportunities when researchers and program designers
do not consider the pathways starting from agriculture inputs through value chains, income and
consumption to nutritional outcomes. Studies that started out by identifying the causal
connection of their intervention to nutrition, and monitored influencing factors could
demonstrate significant benefits of investments in agriculture. Explicitly incorporating nutritionrelated objectives into the design of agriculture programs and ensuring nutrition sensitive
practices throughout the intervention pathway maximizes the potential to achieve nutritional
outcomes. Identifying suitable indicators is also critical to judge the overall progress and to make
necessary changes along the impact pathway. The presentation initiates the discussion on
different potential pathways connecting agriculture and nutrition and how relevant objectives can
be effectively incorporated into the design of food security programs for maximum impact.
How Agriculture Can Contribute to Achieving Desired Nutrition Outcomes
Linda Malcolmson
Canadian International Grains Institute (Cigi), Winnipeg, Canada
Agriculture plays a critical role in influencing desired nutrition outcomes. Through breeding,
new varieties of grains, oilseeds, pulses and special crops are developed with increased yields
and greater resistance to disease, pests and environmental pressures. Breeding can also improve
the nutritional properties of grains. Breeders in Canada modified rapeseed to produce canola with
significantly reduced levels of erucic acid, durum wheat with reduced levels of cadmium and
hulless barley with higher levels of -glucan. Biofortification of crops is also becoming an
important component in breeding programs. The processing properties of grains can also be
improved through plant breeding. Canadian breeders have developed hairless canary seed, food
grade soybeans with improved protein quality for soymilk and tofu production and hulless barley
and oats which eliminates the need to remove the hulls from the kernels prior to processing into
flour or flakes. Agriculture also contributes to an improved food supply through advances in
agronomic practices during seeding, growing, harvesting and post-harvesting and storage.
Advances in food processing have allowed us to achieve foods with a reduction in nutrient losses
as well as harmful microorganisms and anti-nutritional compounds. Cigi is undertaking a number
of studies designed to increase the nutritional properties of foods through the incorporation of
pulse ingredients into food formulations.
A Comparative Nutrient Analysis of African Snake Tomato (Tricosanthes cucumerina L.),
Nigeria Vine Tomato (Lycospersicon esculentum) and Three Manitoba Varieties.
R.Vickerya, O.O. Akinremia*, M. Scanlonb, B. Eilersa, M.K. Idowuc, D.J. Oyedelec, and
O.C. Adebooyed
a
Department of Soil Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; bDepartment of Food Science, University
of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; cDepartment of Soil Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria;
d
Department of Agronomy, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria
According to the World Bank, agriculture employs 45 to 70 percent of the labour force in
Southwest Nigeria. Farm holdings are small and the focus is primarily subsistence. In this region,
the routinely cultivated tomato is the vine tomato (Lycospersicon esclulentum). However, during
periods of hardship, communities also consume the snake tomato (Tricosanthes cucumerina L.),
an indigenous vegetable that grows in the wild. Indigenous vegetables have multiple benefits
including their availability in both wet and dry seasons, sustainable productivity in marginal
areas and low start-up costs. If the snake tomato can provide similar or superior nutrient contents
to the Nigerian vine tomato, then it can be used to increase food security and augment rural
incomes.
Three types of tomato were analyzed in this study for nutrient composition. Vine tomatoes from
Nigeria and Manitoba and a snake tomato from Nigeria. The snake tomato was further
subdivided into pulp and pericarp which were analyzed separately. Five macro- and six
micronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, B, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn and Na) were examined on all 4 subsamples
of tomatoes. When compared to the Nigerian vine tomato, the snake tomato had greater levels of
K, Fe, Cu and Ca, similar levels of Zn and N and lower level of P. For example, potassium
concentrations in the vine tomato, snake tomato pericarp and pulp were 3.6%, 4% and 0.9%,
respectively. Iron levels were 57, 90 and 55 ugg-1 in the vine tomato, snake tomato pericarp and
pulp, respectively. Compared to the Manitoba tomatoes, the snake tomato also had greater
concentrations of K and Ca; similar levels of Fe, Cu, Zn and N and lower level of P. We
conclude that the nutritional composition of snake tomato is comparable to that of vine tomatoes
that are consumed in Nigeria.
Session VI
The contribution of wild foods to food security in the context of HIV/AIDS and climate
change
Keitometsi Ngulube Abu-Basutu1, Brent M. Swallow2, Charlie Shackleton3
1
Department of Environmental Sciences, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa; 2Department of Resource
Economics and Environmental Sociology, University of Alberta, Edmonton; 3Department of Environmental
Science, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
Rural South Africans are forced to cope with a variety of shocks and stressors, particularly high
HIV / AIDS prevalence and climate fluctuation. In 2010, Rhodes University and the University
of Alberta began a four-year research project to increase knowledge about these multiple shocks
in the context of two study sites in the Eastern Cape Province. The project assesses vulnerability,
impacts, coping strategies, and barriers to adaptation, and attempts to catalyze local and regional
action for more effective coping strategies.
One of the specific studies focused on the collection and consumption of wild foods. Data were
collected at the individual and household level in each site, covering 72 households in the periurban site (Lesseyton) and 83 households in the remote rural site (Willowvale). Using data from
an earlier household survey, households were rated in terms of HIV / AIDS affliction. All of the
most heavily afflicted households and a sample of the less heavily afflicted households were
included. Food consumption data were collected in four survey rounds to represent the main
seasons of the year.
Results showed that wild foods are important food sources in both sites, although there is little
purchase or sale of wild foods. Consumption varied widely by season, location, food group and
demographic group. Fruits, were mostly consumed from wild sources, whilst wild animals and
birds were mostly consumed by male respondents and children. Wild fruits and wild mushrooms
were highly seasonal, while others were available throughout the year. In both sites, people
living in afflicted households were much more likely to consume wild mushrooms and in
Willowvale, people living in afflicted households were much more likely to catch, sell and
consume wild fish. People living in afflicted households were also more likely consume wild
foods due to insufficient food from other sources.
Integrated nutrient and water management for sustainable food production in the Sahel
Derek Peak and David Natcher
College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan
Crop production in the Sahel is mainly limited by drought and poor soil fertility. However,
innovative technologies such as fertilizer micro-dosing and rain water harvesting (RWH), which
concurrently improve soil nutrients and moisture, can reduce famine by increasing crop yield.
Micro- dosing involves addition of small doses of fertilizers to crops at sowing or shortly after
seed germination and establishment. Although this approach can increase crop yield by up to 120
%, only ~ 5% of Sahelian farmers have adopted micro-dosing and RWH technologies. Such a
low adoption rate may be attributed to limited capital by farmers to purchase agricultural inputs,
inadequate policy supports, and limited budgetary allocation to extension service and other
agricultural sub-sectors.
The fertilizer micro-dosing approach requires refinement prior to wider adoption. For example, it
is not known whether substantial yield increase after micro-dose application may, in the longterm, deplete soil nutrients through crop harvest. Crop response to fertilizer in semi-arid areas is
often limited by soil moisture, but the interaction of micro-dose and RWH techniques is not well
studied. The U of S, in collaboration with researchers in 4 Sahelian nations, are implementing an
applied research program to 1) refine the micro-dosing technology and 2) promote the
warrantage system as a market-led extension approach to enhance farmer’s access to microcredits and market. This project will also examine social and political factors influencing food
security in the Sahel so as to identify and recommend policies, regulations, and programs that
may effectively increase food security.
Poster Presentations February 7, 2013
Entrapment of fruit phenolics within chitosan nanoparticles
Andrea K. Stone, Kelly Konecsni, Nicholas H. Low and Michael T. Nickerson
Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan
The consumption of antioxidants may be an important factor in preventing and/or delaying the
onset of a number of degenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer’s). Natural polyphenolic compounds
present in fruits are high in antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. The present study
was designed to produce a novel ingredient comprised of a concentrated phenolic extract isolated
from native berries of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon berries and chokecherries) encapsulated in a
chitosan-sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) matrix. The phenolic compound profiles for each were
fractionated by Amberlite XAD-16 resin and analyzed by HPLC-PDA at 280 and 520nm. In
vitro antioxidant tests were used to determine the antioxidant activity of all phenolic fractions.
Analytical results showed that chokecherry extracts had more than twice the antioxidant activity
of Saskatoon berry extracts. Entrapment efficiencies of phenolic isolates from chokecherries and
Saskatoon berries were found to be 15.9% and 23.0%, respectively using HPLC-PDA.
Entrapment of flax seed oil within lentil and chickpea-based microcapsules
Andrea K. Stone, Asli. Can Karaca, Nicholas H. Low and Michael T. Nickerson
Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan
Flaxseed oil was microencapsulated employing a wall material of either chickpea (CPI) or lentil
protein isolate (LPI) and maltodextrin followed by spray drying. Effects of emulsion formulation
(oil, protein and maltodextrin levels) and protein source (CPI vs. LPI) on the physicochemical
characteristics, oxidative stability, and release properties were investigated. Microcapsule
formulation containing higher oil levels (20%) were found to have higher surface oil and lower
encapsulation efficiencies. Overall, LPI-maltodextrin capsules gave higher flaxseed oil
encapsulation efficiencies (~88.0%) relative to CPI-maltodextrin matrices (~86.3%). Both
capsule designs offered protection to the encapsulated flaxseed oil against oxidation over a 25 d
storage study relative to free oil. Overall, ~37.6% of encapsulated flaxseed oil was released after
2 h under simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2 + 0.32% pepsin), followed by the release of an
additional ~46.6% over a 3 h period under simulated intestinal fluid (pH 6.8 + 10.0% pancreatin)
conditions.
Constructivist Teaching Links Nutrition and Agriculture
Grant Wood
Department of Plant Sciences, University of Saskatchewan
Urban Food Production (Pl Sc 235) is a unique course that combines the studies of agriculture,
human nutrition and urban planning. This interdisciplinary course attracts students from colleges
of Agriculture, Pharmacy & Nutrition, Arts & Sciences, Kinesiology, plus Open Studies. It has
also attracted study abroad students from other countries. Urban agriculture, urban market
gardening, rooftop gardening, community gardens and other food production phrases are
discussed in the course. Many universities around the world are emphasizing the importance of
experiential learning to improve the students learning experience. Constructivist teaching is an
integral part of experiential learning and an integral part of Urban Food Production. One course
objective is for the students to apply their new knowledge by designing a community garden or
some form of urban collective garden – ie. schoolyard garden, church garden, seniors garden.
Students are required to identify potential sites for a communal garden. They then assess the site,
identify the existing barriers and potential opportunities, identify ways to overcome the barriers,
and then draw a garden plan that includes fruits and vegetables. In addition, students identify
owners of the land and prepare a brief directed to the landowner, explaining why and how they
can convert their land into an urban communal garden.
Student evaluations praise the course for its very applied, hands-on approach. Nothing is
produced that is not, or cannot be used in their future food endeavors. All student proposals are
reviewed by CHEP Good Food Inc., and in collaboration, we promote those proposals deemed
most appropriate. This course is a prime example of a student-university-community partnership.
Entrapment, survival and release of Bifidobacterium adolescentis within chickpea protein
isolate-based microcapsules
Jiapei Wang, Darren R. Korber, Nicholas H. Low and Michael T. Nickerson
Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan
Bifidobacteria are primary probiotics genera in human and offer variously important health
benefits to their host. It is supposed that encapsulation greatly increased the survival of
probiotics by oral administration against harsh environment such as acidity, bile salt, enzymes, et
al. during transit through the gastrointestinal tract. In this study, Bifidobacterium adolescentis
(ATCC 15703) was entrapped within microcapsules prepared using 10.00% (w/w) chickpea
protein isolates cross-linked with 0.20% (w/v) of genipin, or in the presence of 0.20% (w/v)
alginate or κ-carrageenan. After 2 h at pH 2.0/25oC, the chickpea protein capsules prepared with
alginate presented the best (P<0.01) protection on B. adolescentis with the viable cell numbers of
4.6 log CFU mL-1, and the smallest (P<0.01) geometric mean diameter, 21.9 ± 1.2 µm. The
effect of alginate concentration (0.05, 0.10 and 0.20%, w/w) added to chickpea protein capsule
was then investigated on their ability to protect B. adolescentis. After 2 h at pH 2.0/25oC, the
highest (P<0.01) viable cell numbers (~6.4 log CFU mL-1) was observed for chickpea protein
capsules with 0.10% (w/w) alginate. The number of surviving free and entrapped B. adolescentis
cells after incubation in synthetic gastric juice at pH 2.5/37ºC revealed that free cells decreased
by approximately 6 logs (from 8.7 to 2.4 log CFU mL-1) after 2 h of incubation; whereas,
entrapped cells underwent a 1 log reduction from 8.7 to 7.8 log CFU mL-1 in the first 10 min, and
thereafter remained stable for 2 h. The release of encapsulated B. adolescentis within simulated
intestinal fluid at pH 6.5 ⁄37ºC over 3 h, indicated that after the first 5 min, almost all of the
entrapped B. adolescentis (~7.8 log CFU mL-1) cells were released, yielding free cell counts of
~7.1 log CFU mL-1, followed by no further release.
Design of pea protein-polysaccharide capsules for delivering Bifidobacterium adolescentis for
improved gut health
Natallia V. Varankovich, Nurul H. Khan, Michael T. Nickerson and Darren R. Korber
Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan
Enhancement of foods or feeds through the addition of probiotics is of growing interest to
consumers and producers, as a means of improving and maintaining human and animal gut
health. Probiotics (e.g., Bifidobacterium adolescentis) are a live microbial feed supplement,
which beneficially affects the host by improving its intestinal microflora. Consumption of
probiotics in humans has been associated with alleviation of lactose intolerances, reducing the
risks of some cancers, reducing serum cholesterol and prevention of intestinal tract infections.
However, challenges arise associated with the storage of probiotics in foods/feeds and transit
through the gastrointestinal tract due to the acidic environment. Encapsulation technology
provides a means to circumvent these challenges by encasing live cells within a protective
matrix. The present research investigates the use of various pea protein polysaccharide (alginate,
gellan gum and iota-carrageenan)-based capsules for entrapping and delivering B. adolescentis as
a food or feed supplement. Biopolymer solutions of pea protein isolate (2.0% w/v)polysaccharides (0.5% w/v) were prepared with B. adolescentis (8.5-9 Log CFU/mL of cells in
capsules) and extruded into a calcium hardening bath to produce ~2-3 mm diameter capsules.
Survival of encapsulated B. adolescentis was then investigated versus free cells under stimulated
stomach juice (SSJ) conditions over a 2 h period, followed by release studies within simulated
intestinal fluids over a 3 h period. The survival of living free bacterial cells decreased to 2 Log
CFU/mL after just 60 min in SSJ, followed by complete killing after 90 min; whereas, the
number of viable encapsulated cells recovered after 2 h under the same conditions was ~7 Log
CFU/mL.
Encapsulation of flaxseed oil within lentil protein-based microcapsules
Avramenko, Nicole A, Low, Nicholas H. and Nickerson, Michael T
Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon SK, Canada
The physical properties of lentil protein-based maltodextrin microcapsules with entrapped
flaxseed oil was investigated using native (n-LPI) and pre-treated (heated, un-hydrolyzed (uLPI); and heated, hydrolyzed (h-LPI)) lentil proteins and as a function of oil load (10, 20 and
30% of total solids). Specifically, the moisture, water activity, surface oil and entrapment
efficiency (EE) were assessed, along with droplet size and emulsion morphology of all
formulations. Moisture (<6%) and water activity (<0.2) of all capsules were characteristics of
dried powder ingredients. Light microscopy imaging of the emulsions, revealed that the h-LPI
had slightly larger oil droplets than the n-LPI and u-LPI, which both appeared similar. Findings
were confirmed by light scattering, where droplet sizes were 6.7, 4.2 and 4.2 µm for the h-LPI,
u-LPI and n-LPI stabilized emulsions, respectively. Overall capsules prepared from h-LPI
showed significantly higher surface oil and lower EE than both the n-LPI and u-LPI materials.
Furthermore, as the oil content increased, overall surface oil became higher and EE became
lower. Based on testing, capsules prepared using n-LPI with 10% oil loading was found to have
the lowest surface oil content (~3.7%) and highest EE (~62.8%) for all formulations, and was
subjected to an oxidative storage stability test over a 30 d period vs. free oil, which remains
ongoing.
Extrusion-based legume protein-alginate capsules for the delivery of Bifidobacterium
adolescentis
Nurul H. Khan, Darren R. Korber, Nicholas H. Low and Michael T. Nickerson
Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan
Bifidobacterium adolescentis bacteria were entrapped within extruded capsules comprised of
biopolymer mixtures of chickpea, pea, faba bean or lentil protein isolates, with alginate. Capsule
size, colour and microstructure were assessed, along with the survival and release of B.
adolescentis within synthetic stomach juice (SSJ) and synthetic intestinal fluids (SIF),
respectively. Survival of free and entrapped B. adolescentis were also evaluated in commercial
yogurt products over time. Capsules were produced by extruding the biopolymer-probiotic
solution through a needle into a calcium chloride-Tween 80 cross-linking bath. Capsule size was
initially determined as a function of gauge size (27-16G); sizes ranged from 1.23 (27G) to 2.79
mm (16G). All subsequent capsule formulations were extruded using a 18G needle. Capsule
colour and microstructure (internal and external) varied among four protein-alginate capsules.
All capsule designs resulted in significantly improved survival relative to free cells within SSJ,
where entrapped cells only experienced an average 2.25 log CFU mL-1 reduction after 2 h, as
opposed to free cells which were completely dead after 1 h of exposure. All capsules showed an
initial burst release of ~5.2 log10 CFU mL-1 within SIF, followed by a gradual release to 6.2 log10
CFU mL-1 after 2 h. Shelf life studies in yogurt over a 30 d incubation period revealed that
entrapped cells only underwent a ~3.0 log10 CFU mL-1 reduction for all capsule types, relative to
the free cells which lost ~8.0 log10 CFU mL-1 by day 7. Plant protein-alginate capsules showed
promise for the entrapment, protection and release of B. adolescentis as a probiotic food and/or
supplement ingredient. Further studies are ongoing in our laboratory using an animal model
(Wistar rats) to examine the survival and recovery potential of legume-protein encapsulated
probiotics in the animal intestine.
Nutrient accumulation potential of seven under-utilized leafy vegetables of southwestern
Nigeria
Idowu M. K1., Oyedele, D. J1, Amujoyegbe2 B. J., Akinremi O.O3, Eilers, B., Adebooye,
C.O. and Bouman, T4
Department of Soil Science and Land Resources Management, Faculty of Agriculture, Obafemi Awolowo
University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria1; Department of Crop Production and Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Obafemi
Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria2. Department of Soil Science, University of Manitoba, Manitoba, Canada 3;
School of Biology, University of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada 4
Over 70% of Nigerians live below poverty line on less than one dollar ($1) per day and are
classified as poor. Under-utilized vegetables have been recognized for their potential to enhance
food security especially amongst poor rural women. This study investigated the nutrient
accumulation potential of seven leafy under-utilized vegetables grown on the same farm land
under the same management, with the view to evaluating their nutritional quality. The vegetable
crops were Ebolo (Crassocephalum crepidoides L)), Woorowo (Solanecio biafrae Olive
&Heirne. S Moore), Ewuro (Vernonia amygdalina Del.), Ogunmo (Solanum spp), Igbagba
(Solanum macrocarpon), Elegede (Curcubita pepo), and Ugu (Telfairea occidentalis). The study
was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun
State, Nigeria between June and October, 2012. Forty kg N ha-1 of organic fertilizer and 40 kg N
ha-1 of urea were applied equally to all the plants. The soil pH, organic matter content, total N,
exchangeable cations and available P were evaluated before experimentation. The vegetables
were harvested by leaf cuttings three times. At each cutting, the K, Ca, Na, Cu, Zn and Fe
contents of the vegetable leaves were determined. Potassium content of Ugu, Elegede, Igbagba,
Ogunmo, Woorowo, Ebolo and Ewuro were 2.83%, 3.0%, 4.67%, 4.13%, 5.42%, 3.19% and
5.48%, respectively. Calcium content ranged from 0.09% to 0.32%. The Cu contents of the
vegetables ranged from 0.07 to 0.31 ugg-I while Zn ranged from 0.49 to 1.52 ugg-I and Na from
0.25 to 0.58 ugg-I Iron content was is in the order Elegede > Ebolo > Ogunmo > Woorowo >
Igbagba > Ugu > Ewuro. It was three times higher in Elegede than Ugu that is usually
recommended for its rich Fe content. In conclusion, these underutilized vegetables promise
higher nutritional potentials compared with the traditionally cultivated vegetables.
Nutritional and Anti-Nutritional Changes due to Different Processing Methods on Telfairia
occidentalis (Fluted Pumpkin)
O.O Ojoa, K.A. Taiwoa, M. Scalonb, D. J. Oyedelec, O.C. Adebooyed, T. O. Boumane and
O.O. Akinremif
a
Department of Food Science and Technology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria;
Department of Food Science and Agriculture, University of Manitoba, Canada; cDepartment of Soil Science, OAU,
Ile-Ife, Nigeria. dDepartment of Agronomy, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria; eDepartment of Biology, Cape
Breton University, Sydney, Nova Scotia , Canada; fDepartment of Soil Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg,
Canada
b
Fluted pumpkin scientifically known as Telfairia occidentalis, a tropical vine plant native to
West Africa but occurs mostly in cultivated form in various parts of southern Nigeria. It is
widely cultivated for its health benefit, palatability and for its nutritious leaves which are used
mainly as vegetable. Several nutritional and anti-nutritional contents of the leaves have been
documented but there is a dearth of information on nutrient and anti-nutrient changes due to
different processing method, a review of some investigated processing method on mineral and
anti–nutritional contents are highlighted. Telfairia occidentalis subjected to different processing
methods which included squeeze-washing and rinsing with and without salt for 3 minutes,
boiling with and without salt for 5 minutes and blanching for 5 minutes. Unprocessed Telfairia
occidentalis was used as control. Processed and unprocessed Telfairia occidentalis were sundried
with intermittent turning over until there was no more change in weight. The dried samples were
milled and analysed. The results of the mineral composition of unprocessed Telfairia
occidentalis per 100 g (DW) were as follows: 3.27 mg boron, 897 mg calcium, 2.14 mg copper,
7.20 mg iron, 2146.3 mg potassium, 310.69 mg magnesium, 7.02 mg manganese, 312.25 mg
phosphorus, 3.81 mg zinc and 9.03 mg/g total phenol, 4.26 mg/g tannin acid 1.2% oxalates
content. The various processing methods depleted the level of the minerals and anti-nutrient.
Boiling treatment accounted for 18.2 to 40.57%, squeeze washing with and without salt 10.51 to
33.47%, blanching accounted 3.14 to 26.40% loss of minerals. Also, anti-nutritional contents
showed 10.02 to 23.71 % loss with the various processing methods. Conclusively, Telfairia
occidentalis has very high nutrient and low anti-nutrient content and various processing methods
) in the nutrient parameters which does not meet
caused a significant decrease (
recommended dietary allowance but time of processing was not significantly affecting the
content.
Nutritional and Anti-Nutritional Profile of Ceratotheca Sesamoides (Bungu)
O.O Ojoa, K.A. Taiwoa, M. Scalonb, D. J. Oyedelec, O.C. Adebooyed, T. O. Boumane and
O.O. Akinremif
a
Department of Food Science and Technology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria;
Department of Food Science and Agriculture, University of Manitoba, Canada; cDepartment of Soil Science, OAU,
Ile-Ife, Nigeria; dDepartment of Agronomy, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria; eDepartment of Biology, Cape
Breton University, Sydney, Nova Scotia , Canada; fDepartment of Soil Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg,
Canada
b
Bungu, an important member of the family Pedaliaceae to which sesame or benisseed (sesamum
indicum L.) also belongs, is a native to the northern parts of West Africa. In Nigeria, it is widely
distributed in variable forms and consumed as a leaf vegetable in the savanna ecological zones.
Its mucilage – containing leaves are cooked directly in the soup, thus there is a minimum nutrient
loss. However despite that the leaves and seeds feature prominently in the diet of the indigenous
people of the savanna zones there is a lack of information on nutritional and antinutritional
content of the leaves. Nutritional qualities and anti-nutritional contents of Ceratotheca
Sesamoides, an under-utilized leafy vegetable in Nigeria used in preparing a popular local soup
miyan karkashi were evaluated. The objective of the study was to provide information on the
nutrient and anti-nutrient contents of Ceratotheca Sesamoides. The leaves of Ceratotheca
Sesamoides were sorted and sundried for 3 days before grounding for chemical analysis. The
results revealed that Ceratotheca Sesamoides contain appreciable amount of minerals on dry
weight basis (DW) per 100 g were as follows: Boron 7.13 mg, Calcium 726.19 mg Cadmium
(not detected), copper 2.27 mg Iron 32.38 mg, Potassium 1507.5 mg, Magnesium 386.69mg,
Manganese 20.84 mg, Sodium 15.49 mg, Phosphorous (5.88 mg, Protein 26.40%; it also had
Vitamin B1 8.42 mg/kg, B2 11.63mg/kg, B6 5.81 mg/kg and B12 2.04 mg/kg. Results revealed
that Ceratotheca Sesamoides contain a low concentration of anti-nutrients (1.09 mg/g tannin,
4.26 mg/g total phenol and 0.64 % oxalate). Results showed that Ceratotheca Sesamoides is a
good source of Magnesium, Manganese, Copper, and Iron, moderate sources of Potassium,
Calcium and Phosphorus when compared to their RDA and they are essential in human and
animal nutrition.
Effect of Boiling and Squeeze washing on the Mineral and selected Anti-nutritional Contents
of Solanum macrocarpon
O.O Ojoa, K.A. Taiwoa, M. Scalonb, D. J. Oyedelec, O.C. Adebooyed, T. O. Boumane and
O.O. Akinremif
a
Department of Food Science and Technology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria;
Department of Food Science and Agriculture, University of Manitoba, Canada; cDepartment of Soil Science, OAU,
Ile-Ife, Nigeria; dDepartment of Agronomy, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria; eDepartment of Biology, Cape
Breton University, Sydney, Nova Scotia , Canada; fDepartment of Soil Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg,
Canada
b
These studies assessed the effects of boiling and squeeze washing on some minerals and selected
anti-nutritional contents of Solanum Macrocarpon. The leaves of Solanum Macrocarpon were
sorted, rinsed and subjected to boiling with and without salt for 5 minutes and squeeze washing
with and without salt 5 minutes. Unprocessed vegetables were used as control. Processed and
unprocessed Solanum Macrocarpon was sundried for 3 days before milling and then analysed.
Results showed the mineral content of unprocessed Solanum macrocarpon as calcium (1704
mg/100g), K (2289 mg/100g), copper (4.68 mg/100g), iron (9.26mg/100g), magnesium (637.06
mg/100g), manganese (8.51 mg/100g), phosphorus (275.88 mg/100g), zinc (5.36 mg/100g) and
anti-nutritional contents of 13.07 mg/g, total phenol, 6.39 mg/g, Tannin and 1.8% oxalate. The
results revealed that the processing methods significantly reduced the anti-nutrients. Boiling with
and without salt reduced from 27.38 to 49.30 %, 24.48 % to 35.58, 11.11 to 29.48 % while
squeeze washing with and without salt decreased from 45.69 to 70.73 %, 13.39 to 43.28 % and
18.33 % to 45.56 loss of Tannin, Total Phenol and oxalates respectively. Concentration of
magnesium, copper, iron, manganese, phosphorus and zinc showed percent reduction of 12.1 to
33 and 10.28 to 42.07 for the sample boiled with and without salt and sample squeezed washed
with and without salt. Concentration of potassium decreased significantly (p<0.05) with percent
reduction of 46.34, 29.04, 17.35, 54.32 and 28.29 for the sample boiled with salt, boiling without
salt, blanching, squeeze washing with salt and without salt while calcium content increased by
19.2% and 13.54% for sample boiled with salt and trona and decreased of 40.68% and 16.92%
were recorded for the sample squeezed washed with salt and without salt. Comparing the
mineral content with the recommended dietary allowance, it was showed that the plant leaves is
good sources of the mineral and various processing method still meet the recommended value
except phosphorus.
Adding Value to Flaxseed Meal: Incorporation of Flaxseed Meal and Flax-Meal Derived
Hydrolysates into Bread Formulations as Functional Ingredients
Anusha G.P. Samaranayaka, Phyllis J. Shand, and Janitha P.D. Wanasundara
Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan
Flaxseed meal (FM), a co-product of the oil extraction process, is a valuable functional
ingredient for various food applications due to its lignans, proteins and protein-derived
bioactives. A mucilage/protein hydrolysate (FH) with angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibiting
(ACEI) activity (i.e., blood pressure-lowering potential) was produced using a commercial
flaxseed meal concentrate and food-grade enzymes. Feasibility of incorporating the FM and the
FH into 30% whole grain breads at 5, 10 and 15% level was tested. Farinographs were used to
assess bread dough properties. Parameters such as size (height, weight, volume), texture, and
color of breads were measured initially to identify the maximum level of flaxseed meal and
hydrolysate incorporation. Bread samples were also assessed for the retention of ACEI activity in
the final product. Selected breads were tested for acceptability using a consumer panel with 118
participants. Breads made with 5% FM and 5% FH addition were comparable in loaf volume and
texture to the 30% whole grain (control) bread. The loaves became smaller and denser with the
addition of FH at 10% and 15% level, and the color became darker as well. The control bread
had pro-ACE activity and the addition of FM did not contribute to the ACEI activity. The breads
made with FH possessed significant ACEI activity and indicated a dose-dependent increase with
the increase of FH level. Consumer study with five bread types (i.e., control, 5% FM, 5% FH,
10% FM, and 10% FH) revealed that the flavor, appearance, texture, and moistness levels of all
breads were acceptable even though the desirabilty of 10% FH bread decreased somewhat in
terms of flavor, appearance, and overall acceptability.
Results from this study emphasize the value of flaxseed meal-derived products in hydrolysate
form as potential blood pressure-lowering ingredients as well as the feasibility of incorporating
them into bakery products as functional ingredients.
CIFSRF- Call 3: Improving human nutrition through plant breeding and soil healthCommunication and scaling up strategy
Shauna Davies
College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan
Communication is central to the functioning and success of research projects. The CIFSRF-Call
3: Improving human nutrition through plant breeding and soil health communication and scaling
up strategy was developed as a means for sharing research outcomes with all members of
research team and other stakeholders. The objectives of the communication strategy were to raise
awareness and understanding of the project's research outcomes with stakeholders in a
sustainable, adaptable and cost-effective manner. Communication focused on strategies to
dialogue and maintain linkages with farmers and farming communities, district bureaus of health,
agriculture staff, development agents, peasant associations, NGOs, policy makers and the
academic communities. Tools such as a project website, regular email communication, extension
activities, workshops, seminars and graduate thesis defense were utilized to ensure that
stakeholders are aware of the knowledge, tools, data and products being generated by the project.
By sharing research outcomes with all stakeholders, as well as organizations, the success of the
project extends beyond project level. This scaling up strategy, includes collaborating with local
partners and organizations which will allow information about the biofortication of pulses
couple with soil fertility management and nutrition to reach a broader audience of stakeholders in
pulse growing communities in Ethiopia.
16-year partnership between the University of Saskatchewan and the Hawassa University in
Ethiopia. Mike Grevers
College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan
The partnership between the UofS and HU started in 1996, when Dr. Ahmet Mermut, on special
assignment with the FAO visiting the National Soil Laboratory in Addis Ababa, and two
Ethiopian colleagues applied for a grant from CIDA to improve land management practices in
the Rift Valley of Ethiopia. Funding for a subsequent project was obtained (CIDA and DelPHE),
focusing on improving food security and advancing environmental stability in rural Ethiopia.
It became apparent that in order to make significant improvement to the health of Ethiopian
farmers, the work needed to address food quality (nutritional diet, proteins and micronutrient
deficiencies). The partnership was expanded include faculty members of the College of
Pharmacy and Nutrition. Socio-economic differences, particularly gender differences, were
recognized and incorporated in extension activities to bring about change in food production and
human nutrition in rural Ethiopia.
The current project, which ends in 2014, involves developing and implementing a whole food
strategy to combat protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies in Ethiopian
populations while contributing to the sustainability of local agro-ecosystems within an agro-food
systems approach. The key area involves biofortification using pulse crops.
The 16-year partnership has resulted in, and continues to improve food security in southern
Ethiopia. Specifically; increased capacity of HU to do research and extension, improved
sustainable agricultural practices (land management, improved varieties of pulse crops) for
Ethiopian farmers, training of a large number of Ethiopian agricultural specialists, supporting
Ethiopian female graduate students, developing graduate programs (in Agricultural Sciences
MSc and PhD) and in Human Nutrition (MSc), providing UofS and HU “faculty exchange”
opportunities, and providing UofS students the opportunity for Term Abroad experiences. The
Ethiopian government has recognized Hawassa University as a centre of excellence in
agricultural education and research.