ABSTRACT

This work examined the effect of different garnishing in acceptability and quality parameters of prepared ighu. Ighu was prepared with the addition ofaku, akpi ngwo, odudu and akidi. Proximate and mineral composition of the garnished Ighu and local toppings were assessed using standard methods, while sensory evaluation ofthe prepared ighu was conducted using 20-members semitrained panelists. Data generated were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) of complete randomized design while mean separation was done using Duncan multiple range test at 95% confidence level. The results showed significant differences (p<0.05) across all proximate and mineral properties. Mineral analysis revealed that Black bean (ABW) had the highest potassium content (790.65 mg/lOOg) and magnesium content (126.46 mg/lOOg), while edible winged termites (TMW) had the highest phosphorus (355.22 mg/lOOg) and calcium (250.64 mg/lOOg) content. Akpi ngwo (PWW), contributed substantial magnesium (130.22 mg/lOOg), though lower in potassium and calcium compared to the other samples. Edible winged termites-gamished 'Ighu' (TMW) exhibited the highest crude protein (32.45%), fat (12.84%), and energy value (261.29 kcal), while Black bean-garnished 'Ighu' (ABW) had the highest moisture content (44.68%) and carbohydrate (20.55%). The control sample (ABC) which is the plain ighu had significantly lower proximate and mineral content compared to the other garnishing. Sensory evaluation scores indicated that akpi ngwo garnered ighu had the highest ratings across appearance, taste, texture, aroma, and general acceptability, with an overall acceptability score of 8.60 out of 9, reflecting strong consumer preference. The study concludes that the use of edible insects like Edible winged tennites and palm weevils, as well as legumes like Black bean, significantly enhances the. nutrient quality of 'Ighu.' The findings suggest that these garnishing could be incorporated into diets to address specific nutritional needs, particularly for protein, energy, and minerals.