1INES Ruhengeri, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Biotechnologies Department, P.O. Box 155, Ruhengeri, Musanze, Rwanda
2Volcano Green Invest Ltd, Musanze, Rwanda
3Repolicy Research Centre, Kigali, Rwanda
4*University of Rwanda, College of Education, P.O. Box 55, Rwamagana, Rwanda (Corresponding Author)
5Chemistry Department, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, P.O. Box 62000-00200, Nairobi, Kenya
Malnutrition remains a significant health challenge in Rwanda, with the highest stunting rates in Nyabihu and Ngororero districts. While vegetables provide essential nutrients, they are insufficient to address protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Edible insects offer a promising complementary source of nutrition. This pilot study evaluated the impact of vegetable powders fortified with edible insects as a nutrient-dense intervention for malnourished children aged 24-48 months in the Nyabihu and Ngororero districts. Using a randomized controlled trial design, the study enrolled 46 malnourished children, randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving the fortified powder along with the existing nutritional product (Corn Soya Blend or CSB + +) or a control group receiving only CSB + +, for a 6-month intervention period. The fortified powder combined seven selected vegetables (green amaranth, carrots, beetroot, celery, green peppers, red onions, and garlic) with three edible insects (termites, African bush crickets, and crickets). Key outcomes, including anthropometric measures (weight, height, mid-upper arm circumference), health markers, dietary intake, and intervention adherence, were assessed at the baseline, during the 6-months intervention, and at the endline. The results were statistically analyzed by independent and paired t-tests, and the confidence level was noted at 95%. An important improvement in linear growth [from 83.58 cm to 86.08 cm, with a mean difference of 2.50 cm (SD 1.58; 95% CI 2.03–2.97)], weight gain [from 10.32 kg to 11.59 kg, with a mean difference of 1.27 kg (SD 0.70; 95% CI 1.06–1.48)], and MUAC [13.06 cm to 13.95 cm, with a mean difference of 0.89 cm, was seen (SD 0.65; 95% CI 0.69–1.07)] was observed for the experimental group, in comparison to the control group. Therefore, the fortified product can augment the nutritional status and the growth outcomes among the Rwandan malnourished children. The generated critical data highlights the effectiveness of insect-fortified vegetable powders as a sustainable, nutrient-dense solution to malnutrition, with potential for broader application in similar contexts. To confirm the efficacy of the fortified product and to inform policy and decision makers, larger-scale trials with longer follow-up are recommended.
Keywords: N/A
How to cite this article: Rangiryayo E, Ndayisaba K, Iradukunda PG, Nsabayezu E, Cheseto X, Niyonzima FN. Fortifying Vegetable Powder With Edible Insect As A Nutrient-Dense Food To Combat Malnutrition And Stunting In Ngororero And Nyabihu Districts Of Rwanda: A Pilot Study. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(14s): 403. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.14s.88
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None