A Community-Based Mixed-Methods Study: Fish Bycatch Protein Supplementation as a Sustainable Solution for Child Malnutrition in Bengaluru, India

<b>Objective:</b> Malnutrition remains a global challenge to child development, with urban slums in India experiencing high rates of protein deficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a low-cost, fish bycatch-derived protein supplement in supporting catch-up growth among malnourished children. <b>Methods:</b> Using the Sustainable Community Partnership and Empowerment (SCOPE) model, we implemented a 90-day intervention with daily 10 g of Advanced Protein Powder (APP), produced from underutilized fish bycatch. Forty-six malnourished children (aged 3-6) from Bengaluru slums were randomized into a Control group receiving caloric support or an APP supplement group. Growth indicators, cognition, and caregiver perspectives were assessed. <b>Results:</b> Children receiving the APP supplement showed a significant increase in the weight-for-age percentile (underweight), rising by 7.59%, compared to 0.59% in the Control group (<i>p</i> = 0.02185). Muscle growth, measured by mid-upper arm circumference, also improved significantly in the APP Group (<i>p</i> < 0.05). In the first month, APP supplementation led to a significant height gain of 1.86 cm (<i>p</i> < 0.001), whereas the Control group showed no change (<i>p</i> > 0.05). Additionally, APP supplementation enhanced cognitive function, visual processing, short-term memory, and planning ability, with sustained effects at six months (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Caregivers reported noticeable improvements in children's vitality, appetite, focus, and engagement in social and learning activities. <b>Conclusions:</b> Bycatch-derived protein supplementation, implemented through the SCOPE model, enhanced physical growth, behavior, and cognition in malnourished children in urban slums. Future studies should investigate the long-term effects, scalability, and adaptability of this sustainable solution for addressing child malnutrition.