Orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) is known to be a rich source of β-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A and a potential tool for fighting vitamin A deficiency (VAD) in developing countries. OFSP flour was incorporated into wheat flour at 10, 20 and 30% (w/w) substitution levels. The stability of β-carotene during baking and the contribution of OFSP-wheat composite breads to vitamin A requirements were evaluated. The retention of all-trans-β-carotene in breads containing 10, 20 and 30% OFSP flour was 62.7, 71.4 and 83% respectively, after baking. Breads containing 20% and 30% OFSP flour could be used for the eradication of vitamin A deficiency as they were found to meet 29 and 89.2% (100 g portion) respectively, of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of vitamin A amongst children aged 3–10 years. The latter would meet nearly a half of the RDA of vitamin A for pregnant and lactating women.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.01.133
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.01.133
The impact of climate change on Africa’s food systems is profound. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events and irregular rainfall patterns are reducing food production, raising food costs, increasing food and nutrition insecurity, and decreasing job opportunities across the continent. Small-scale farmers are particularly vulnerable to seasonal climate variability, including ...