Preliminary data on the nutritional composition of the edible stink-bug, Encosternum delegorguei Spinola, consumed in Limpopo province, South Africa
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Date
Authors
Teffo, Leah Snow
Toms, R.B.
Eloff, Jacobus Nicolaas
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Academy of Science of South Africa
Abstract
The edible stink-bug, Encosternum (Haplosterna) delegorguei Spinola (Heteroptera, Hemiptera), is a traditional delicacy of the Venda people in South Africa's Limpopo province. Selling the insects at Thohoyandou and other markets provides a valuable income for harvesters. In this article we report the first nutritional information on these insects. Dried bugs consist of 35% protein, 51% fat, with an energy content of 2600 kJ/100 g. Amino-acid concentrations varied from 0.82 mg/100 g (for threonine) to 1.32 mg/100 g (valine). Mineral content was 1.2 g/100 g. The stink-bugs are therefore a source of proteins, fats, amino acids, minerals and vitamins. The conservation and sustainable harvesting of these insects is highly desirable. Further investigation of their nutritional and medicinal properties is recommended, as well as research on their conservation and more efficient use as a food source.
Description
Keywords
Nutritional composition, Encosternum (Haplosterna) delegorguei Spinola (Heteroptera, Hemiptera), Limpopo, South Africa
Sustainable Development Goals
Citation
Teffo, LS, Toms, RB & Eloff, JN 2008, 'Preliminary data on the nutritional composition of the edible stink-bug, Encosternum delegorguei Spinola, consumed in Limpopo province, South Africa', South African Journal of Science, vol. 103, no. 11, pp. 434-436. [http://www.sajs.co.za/]