Nutritional profile of winged termite, Macrotermes bellicosus (Isoptera: Termitidae) consumed in Kontagora, Nigeria

Macrotermes bellicosus is considered a delicacy in Nigeria and many parts of Africa. The proximate, minerals, anti-nutrients and amino acids contents of the roasted termite were determined using standard methods. The crude protein was 36.16%, fats 23.36%, carbohydrates 13.16%, fibre 13.18% and ash 5.38%. Minerals like calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and magnesium were abundant and had excellent mineral ratios. Consumption of 100g of termite as food will supply 37% of calcium, 40% of magnesium, 52% of potassium, and over 100% of iron and zinc required by humans. Anti-nutrients like cyanide and oxalate present in wing termites are of tolerable quantity for human consumption. The amino acid content was excellent with 69% of the indispensable amino acids satisfying the recommended benchmark for human diets. The quantity of branched amino acids (19.4%) was adequate and the consumption of 50.12g of termite will supply all the amino acids needed in adult humans. The results indicate that winged termite is a potentially rich source of macronutrients, minerals and essential amino acids that are necessary for combating protein-mineral malnutrition common in developing countries of the world. Therefore, the insect is recommended as an alternative to conventional sources of animal protein.