Abstract:
INTRODUCTION : Bambara groundnut (BGN) is an underutilised, indigenous crop
in sub-Saharan Africa. As an underutilised crop the nutritional contribution it
can make is not well researched and documented. This study aims to better
understand the nutritional profile and protein quality of BGN and the potential
of this legume to combat food and nutritional security in rural and malnourished
communities.
METHODS : Nutritional analysis, including proximate analysis, minerals, total fat and
amino acid profile of BGN from three different regions in the Mpumalanga (MP)
province of South Africa (SA), were determined. The protein quality was evaluated
with various methods including CSEAA, IEAA, PDCAAS and DIAAS and compared
with other pulses and legumes in the diet.
RESULTS : BGN consists of - 18,9% carbohydrates, 9,4% protein and 3% fat as
consumed. The protein quality is lower than some other commonly consumed
pulses but can still be valuable as a complementary protein in the current
traditional diet of the region.
DISCUSSION : There is the potential that BGN, together with other commonly
consumed plant-based foods (e.g. maize) form a complete protein, that
can contribute to protein intake and alleviate the burden of protein-energy
malnutrition, specifically in developing countries.
