Nutritional values of Zonocerus variegatus, Macrotermes bellicosus and Cirina forda insects: Mineral composition, fatty acids and amino acid profiles

Most edible insects have high nutritional values and are considered as a cheap source of animal protein. This study evaluated the nutritional values of three edible insects in Nigeria: Zonocerus variegatus, Macrotermes bellicosus and Cirina forda as well as their functional properties. The insects had high values of crude fat, protein and vitamins (A, B6, C and E). All the quantified minerals in this study except Na, K and Fe are greater in Z. variegatus when compared to M. bellicosus and C. forda. The recommended nutrient intake (RNI) for infants, children, pregnant and lactating women (PLW) for vitamin B9 was >25% in the three insects, and >100% for vitamin B2 in M. bellicosus and C. forda in standard portions. The RNI of iron and zinc for infants, children and PLW was >25% of the studied insects in standard portions with iron contributing ≥100%. Linoleic acid (C18:2n-6) and oleic acid (C18:1 cis-9) were the dominant fatty acids. Substantial amounts of essential and non-essential amino acids were present in the three insect samples. The functional properties for the isolates and flour contents of the insects varied significantly (p<0.05) across the three edible insects. The data from this study show that the three edible insects have adequate nutritive values that can be exploited as an alternative food source for combating nutritional deficiencies associated with malnutrition. Also, the functional properties of these insects indicate that they have the potential to be harnessed by food industries for enrichment and fortification of human foods and animal feeds.