Akokono: Ghana’s Forgotten Superfood to Combat Malnutrition, Anaemia, and Food Insecurity
In the heart of Ghana's traditional culinary practices lies a little-known but nutritionally potent delicacy—Akokono, the larvae of the palm weevil. Once a staple in various local dishes, Akokono is now being rediscovered for its exceptional nutritional value, positioning it as a sustainable solution to combat malnutrition, anaemia, and food insecurity in Ghana. Nutritional Profile of AkokonoRecent studies have highlighted Akokono's impressive nutrient composition. A 32-gram serving of Akokono-groundnut paste provides: Protein: 99% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for infants aged 7–12 months and 84% for children aged 1–3 years. Iron: 96% of the RDA, significantly higher than the 21% found in 100g of meat. Other Nutrients: Rich in copper, magnesium, zinc, B-vitamins (niacin, riboflavin, folate), vitamin E, and linoleic acid. These nutrients are crucial for growth, cognitive development, and immune function, making Akokono an excellent complementary food for […]