Nutritional Potential of Two Insect Species Consumed in Togo: Gnathocera trivittata (Swederus, 1787) and Gnathocera impressa (Olivier, 1789)

Aims: The objective of this study is to determine the nutritional values of Gnathocera trivittata and Gnathocera impressa in order to promote their consumption for food security.

Place and Duration of Study: Samples of G. trivittata and G. impressa were caught in Togo in the three following localities: Kparatao (8°57'151"N; 1°11'838"E), Kpéwa (9°16'978"N; 1°14'149"E) and Soudou (9°21'604"N; 1°21'348"E), between September and December 2013.

Methodology: The contents of ash, protein, vitamins as well as lipids were determined. Fiber content was obtained. Minerals were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and colorimetry. Fatty acid composition of the lipids was determined by gas chromatography and the amino acid composition was obtained by separation of the individual amino acids using the Biochrom 30+ amino acid analyzer.

Results: The results reveal that the average protein content of the insects studied ranged from 59.36 to 61.63%. Average lipid levels ranged from 9.09 to 9.86%. They contain all the essential fatty and amino acids. Their average fiber content fluctuates between 8.35 and 10.05%. Regarding the composition of micronutrients, the species studied are very rich in minerals and vitamins. The ratios of minerals, fatty acids and essential amino acids are balanced.

Conclusion: Given the nutritional potentials of the insects studied, they can contribute significantly to the fight against protein-energy and micronutrient malnutrition in Togo.