Uses of Rice-based Supplementary Nutritive Fortified Food for the Healthy Growth of Infants

Background: Maternal nutrition significantly influences fetal development; inadequate intake can lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), low birth weight, and increased risk of preterm birth and children who experience under-nutrition are at a higher risk of delayed neuro-cognitive development and increased mortality rates. Aim: The study aimed to develop formulae for wholesome infant foods based on locally available foods, which would fulfil their nutritional needs. Methodology: Two villages were chosen for adoption, specifically Vill. HahsoraChetiya Goan and Vill. Bharalua, Dekhowmukh, under the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sivasagar, during the year 2020-2021. The supplementary feeding formulas were created in village homes, and the products were delivered to thirty (30) mothers with infants aged between six (6) months and twenty-four (24) months. The 100gm formula consists of 70 gm parboiled rice powder,30gm green gramdal powder,5gm groundnut powder and 5 gm carrot powder. In formulating the feeding formulae WHO (World Health Organisation) Infant and Young Child Feeding Guidelines of 68% carbohydrates.15 % protein, 7-10% fat, 2-5% ash and 2-5 % fibre with an energy value of about 400kcal per 100 g of flour were thoroughly followed. The chosen babies enjoyed the developed products in both sweet and savoury flavours. Observation method was used to see the adoption of the technology among selected beneficiary and their skills in preparing the developed SFF with the help of an observation checklist. Results: The sample babies consumed the developed products with sweet and salty flavours. In storage quality observation, the microbial counts of the food samples were found satisfactory after two months. The storage period of the product showed no significant effect. The control supplementary feeding does not provide the required amount of protein as per the recommended dietary allowances for weaning food. The value of various minerals, viz. calcium and iron are 39.988 and 1.942 mg/100 g product, respectively. The developed SFF was also enriched with protein (11.435 gm/100g), fibre (1.416gm/100g), and fat (2.973gm/100g), which is important in combating malnourishment among children below 5 years of age. Sensory characteristics were found satisfactory through organoleptic testing. A total of 89.9 per cent of mothers use the rice-based supplementary feeding fortified with carrots. All the sample mothers were able to prepare the product at the household level. Conclusion: A rice-based supplementary feeding that is culturally accepted, affordable, easy to prepare, and safe has gained popularity among the rural population of Assam and may contribute to the reduction of protein-energy malnutrition.