Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://10.10.97.169:4000/handle/123456789/41

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 183

Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practices of maize farmers following post-intervention programs to mitigate aflatoxin contamination in Chamwino, Dodoma, Tanzania
(Urmia University, 2025) Msangi, Riziki Salehe; Issa-Zacharia, Abdulsudi; Chove, Lucy Mlipano
Aflatoxin contamination poses a significant threat to agricultural systems and public health, particularly in regions such as Dodoma, where favorable climatic conditions promote the growth of aflatoxin-producing fungi. Various interventions were initiated to address the problem of aflatoxin contamination among maize farmers in Dodoma. This study aimed to assess maize farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) following intervention programs designed to mitigate aflatoxin contamination in Chamwino district, Dodoma. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in five wards of Chamwino District: Chilonwa, Msanga, Chamwino, Majeleko, and Buigiri. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 300 maize farmers to assess their KAP related to aflatoxin contamination. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Among 300 farmers surveyed, 221 (73.7%) demonstrated awareness of aflatoxin-related interventions, whereas 79 (26.3%) did not exhibit such awareness. Of the 221 informed farmers, 123 (55.7%) demonstrated good knowledge, 51 (23.1%) exhibited medium knowledge, and 47 (21.3%) displayed poor knowledge regarding aflatoxin contamination and its mitigation. Of the participants, 186 (84.2%) exhibited positive attitudes, 34 (15.4%) displayed medium attitudes, and only 1 (0.5%) demonstrated poor attitudes. Of the participants, 157 (71.0%) exhibited good practices, while 64 (29.0%) were categorized as having medium-level practices. No farmers demonstrated poor practices regarding aflatoxin contamination and mitigation. The interventions effectively enhanced awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding aflatoxin mitigation among maize farmers in Chamwino District. Future interventions should strengthen collaboration between government agencies, Non-Government Organizations, farmer groups, and local communities to sustain and expand these gains.
Antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices among smallholder chicken farmers in Southern Mozambique
(Academic Journals, 2025) Mugabe, Noemia Andre; Kussaga, Jamal; Issa-Zacharia, Abdulsudi
Intensive production systems face challenges in treating individual chickens due to the large number of animals, resulting in the indiscriminate use of antibiotics as the only alternative. The use of antibiotics in poultry production has adverse effects on humans, as prolonged consumption of contaminated meat can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance in intestinal bacteria. A cross-sectional survey involving 395 smallholder farmers was conducted through face-to-face interviews to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic use in urban and peri-urban areas of Southern Mozambique. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. The findings revealed that 60% of respondents were female, 28.6% had received training on antibiotic use, and 73.2% identified poultry production as their primary source of income. Approximately 72.2% were unaware of antimicrobial resistance, while oxytetracycline (22.8%) was the most commonly used antibiotic on farms. In cases of disease, 96.99% of farmers self-administered antibiotics, and 30.9% reported consuming meat from chickens that had died during or after antibiotic treatment. Chi-square and regression analyses (p=0.000) revealed significant associations, indicating that training positively influenced knowledge regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics. Education level also influenced antibiotic use (p=0.000); farmers with higher education levels were more likely to believe that medicinal plants could serve as alternatives to antibiotics. This study revealed that antibiotic use contributes to the contamination of broiler chickens with antibiotic residues and promotes antimicrobial resistance, primarily due to inadequate knowledge, attitudes, and practices resulting from insufficient training in antibiotic application. To reduce, prevent, and eliminate the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and the spread of antimicrobial resistance, it is essential for the government to educate, train, and monitor veterinary professionals, smallholder farmers, and resellers on the proper use of antibiotics in poultry production.
Community awareness of microbial and heavy metal contamination in fried street foods wrapped in printed papers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(Science Publishing Group, 2025) Hassan, Ramadhan Abdul; Issa-Zacharia, Abdulsudi; Chaula, Davis Naboth
Due to poor hygiene, handling, and food safety education, street food poses a substantial public health risk. Foods wrapped in ink-printed papers have been related to cancer, neurological, reproductive, and renal and liver harm. Objective of this study was to assess community awareness regarding potential microbiological and heavy metal contamination in ready-to-eat fried foods wrapped in printed paper in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The structured questionnaire was used to assess the awareness of 293 street food vendors in three districts: Kinondoni, Temeke, and Kigamboni. The findings from this study indicated that most (67.8%) of vendors were female, primarily aged 31-40 years (58.0%), and mostly possessing a primary level education (47.7%). Approximately 67.5% of vendors were owners of their businesses, and 36.7% possessed more than four years of experience. Findings revealed printed paper to be the primary wrapping material (44.5%), followed by plastic bags (41.3%). Hygiene practices were was reported to be inadequate in which 88.0% of vendors did not cover their hair while 62.2% wore unclean clothing, and 95.1% failed to wash their hands before handling food. It was further revealed that awareness on heavy metal (71.1%) and microbial contamination (67.5%) was markedly inadequate and that the vendors were unaware of these risks, respectively. Although the finding showed poor awareness, 63.6% of vendors favoured the need for regulations on heavy metal contamination, while 56.5% favoured the reinforcement of regulations on the use of printed papers as wrapping materials for foods. These findings highlight the need to educate vendors about the risks associated with using ink-printed paper and personal hygiene practices to reduce microbial and heavy metal contamination.
Assessment of bio-security knowledge, attitude and hygienic practices among smallholder chicken farmers in Southern Mozambique
(Academic Journal, 2025) Mugabe, Noémia André; Kussaga, Jamal; Issa-Zacharia, Abdulsudi
The production of broiler chickens in intensive systems struggles to maintain hygiene in production, despite contributing to combating malnutrition, generating employment, and increasing family income, especially in developing countries. Using a structured questionnaire survey, a cross-sectional study was carried out among 395 smallholder farmers to evaluate their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to farm biosecurity in urban and peri-urban areas of Mozambique and determine the factors affecting KAP (knowledge, attitude, and practice) levels. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) (IBM version 27). The findings indicate that education level and training significantly influence (p < 0.001) food safety in terms of biosecurity knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Smallholders who attended food safety training exhibited positive attitudes (95.5%, mean score of 89.71 ± 10.1) in contrast to those who did not participate in training (74.8%, mean score of 79.91 ± 9.68). Additionally, washing hands with soap before and after using the toilet and wearing protective clothing during chicken husbandry were significantly associated with education level (χ² = 15.345, P = 0.018); those with informal education were 34% less likely to have a negative attitude toward food safety compared to those with high education. A significant correlation (p < 0.01) was observed between residence area, training, and biosecurity knowledge, attitude, and practice. Because smallholders lack training, hygiene expertise, and biosecurity practices on their farms, this study concluded that they pose a risk to public health and food safety. To maintain consumer health and guarantee food safety, farmers should properly dispose of waste, including dead chickens, and receive continuous training in excellent biosecurity measures on the farm.
Physical activity and sedentary behaviors associated with overweight and obesity among primary school children in Tanzania: a case-control study
(Emerald, 2021) Pacific, Renatha; Kulwa, Kissa; Martin, Haikael D.; Petrucka, Pammla
Purpose – This study aims at determining the risk of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors on overweight and obesity among primary school children aged 10–13 years in Tanzania. Design/methodology/approach – A case-control study was conducted from January to March 2020 involving 69 overweight/obese children as cases and 138 normal weight children as controls. Cases were identified as having body mass index-for-age þ1 standard deviation (SD) and controls as those having BMI-for-age range between 2 SD to <þ1 SD. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection on daily physical activities and sedentary behavior types, frequency duration and activity score. An independent sample t-test was used to compare means of activity score between cases and controls. Binary logistic regression was used to predict risk factors for overweight/obesity. Findings – Risk factors for overweight/obesity were listening to music and/or radio for >2 h/week (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2–6.1) and walking for exercise <2 h/week (OR 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–4.1). On the other hand, rope skipping for >2 h/week (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.03–0.7) was a protective factor against overweight/obesity. Controls had a significantly higher mean score of being active during lunch breaks compared to cases (p = 0.012). Cases had higher weight, height and percentage body fat than controls (p < 0.001). The home environment provided more avenues for physical activity than the school environment. Originality/value – To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is original research work and the first case- control study to predict physical activity and sedentary behaviors as risk factors for overweight and obesity in Tanzanian school children.
Implementation status of Tanzania's national school feeding guideline: a case study of Morogoro Municipality
(European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety, 2026) Haneul, Go; Mosha, Theobald; Pacific, Renatha; Kandonga, Agness
Aims: In the context of Tanzania’s National School Feeding and Nutrition Services Guideline (2020), this study aimed to assess its implementation in primary schools, focusing on meal provision and parental contributions as key operational components. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design combining quantitative and qualitative methods was conducted in primary schools in Morogoro Municipality between June and August 2025.Data were collected from 10 primary schools (six public and four private). Quantitative data were obtained through structured surveys administered to 381 pupils in grades 5–7. Qualitative data were collected through key informant interviews with 10 head teachers and focus group discussions with 25 school food committee members. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and independent-samples t-tests, while qualitative data were analysed thematically to explore school-level practices related to meal provision and parental contributions. Results: School meals comprised 3.55 food groups, with private schools providing significantly more diverse meals than public schools (p < .001). Most public schools relied on simple and repetitive meals, primarily cereals and legumes, reflecting limited and irregular parental contributions and constrained storage facilities. Qualitative findings indicated that head teachers and teachers played a central role in menu planning and programme management, with decisions largely shaped by resource availability rather than full adherence to guideline standards. Parental contributions were the primary source of financing across all schools, though contributions were often insufficient to support diversified meal provision. Conclusion: The findings suggest a gap between national school feeding policy expectations and school-level implementation capacity. Differences in meal diversity and financing arrangements appeared to reflect variation in household economic capacity and school-level resources. Strengthening school-level technical support for menu planning, together with improved communication and reporting mechanisms, may improve adherence to guideline standards. In addition, clearer operational guidance, standardized reporting mechanisms, and stronger mechanisms for parent involvement may support more consistent and equitable implementation of school feeding programmes.
Awareness, barriers and facilitators on the use of food labels among adult consumers in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
(NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH, 2026) Wazoel Ester Erasto; Pacific Renatha M.; Mwanri Akwilina Wendelin
Background: Food labeling is a fundamental educational tool for advocating for public awareness. When properly used, food labels serve as an essential public health tool that help consumers understand the nutrition value of food, storage conditions, compare products and make informed food choices. This study aimed to assess the awareness, use, barriers and motivators regarding prepackage food label among adults’ consumers in Morogoro Municipality. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and May 2025, among 310 adults aged 18+ years. Data were collected using a structured and pretested questionnaire that covered awareness, attitude, barriers and facilitators that influence the use of label on prepackaged foods. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic analysis. Results: Out of 310 respondents, about 76% were female;37% were of age between 31-50 years. Awareness of food labels was high (73.5%) of which 50% read the labels consistently. Increased age was negatively associated with reading food labels [AOR 0.96, 95% CI [0.94, 0.98]), while having secondary (AOR 3.09, 95% CI [1.1, 8.71]) or university education (AOR 4.5, 95% CI [1.42, 14.3]) significantly increased the likelihood of reading food labels. Barriers were language used (60%), time constraints (51%), information overload (46%), complexity (47%) and distrust on labels (37%). Health and dietary goals (23.5%) were the main facilitators for food label use. Conclusion: Despite high awareness, consistent food label use was moderate. Barriers such as language, complexity, time constraints, information overload and lack of trust on food labels hinder usage, while health goals encourage engagement. The ministry of Trade and Industry should ensure compliance of label requirements in respect of the language. Target public education is essential to improve consumer understanding and use of food labels.
A Prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated lifestyle patterns among adults in Ilala City and Mkuranga District, Tanzania
(Science Publishing Group., 2025) Fransisco Chrispin Clavery; Kinabo, Renatha Pacific
Introduction: Overweight and obesity are significant global public health challenges associated with adverse burdens on the quality of life and mortality due to their association with non-communicable diseases. Early identification and control of these conditions are vital to mitigating their impact. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 339 respondents in Ilala City (urban) and Mkuranga district (rural) to assess the prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity among adults. Data were collected on lifestyle, nutrition and demographic characteristics, and anthropometric measurements of height, weight, fat mass%, and waist and hip circumference were measured. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27. Results: The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 26% and 18.9% respectively. In Ilala City, 61.1% of respondents was either overweight (32.2% or obese (28.7%), and in Mkuranga district, the prevalence of overweight was 19.2% and that of obesity was 8.3%. Key factors negatively associated with overweight and obesity included rural residence (AOR = 0.25; 95%CI (0.14 – 0.47); P = 0.000), income (AOR = 0.2; 95%CI (0.1 – 0.5); P = 0.001), Vigorous physical activities (COR = 0.5; 95%CI (0.3 – 0.7); P =0.002), and consumption of pulses (legumes, nuts and oil seeds) (AOR = 0.1:95%CI (0.01 – 0.2); P = 0.026), and positively associated with sex (AOR = 3.65; 95%CI (2.1 – 6.3); P = 0.000), where by female respondents were more overweight or obese than males, low education (AOR = 7.6; 95%CI (1.2 – 48.5); P = 0.03) in which primary school education were at higher risk of being overweight or obese, and spending less than 75 minutes per week for vigorous physical activities (COR = 2.6; 95%CI (1.7 – 4.12); P = 0.000) were by respondents with sedentary lifestyle are at higher risk of being overweight or obese. Conclusion: The findings suggest that urbanization, sex, education level, physical activity, and dietary habits are significant predictors of overweight and obesity. This serves as a bench mark for planning further studies aiming at reducing the prevalence of overweight and obesity among the adult population through well -designed interventions.
Nutritional status and dietary habits of urban and peri-urban primary school children (10-13 years) in Tanzania: A comparative study between public and private schools
(INNSPUB, 2021) Pacific, Renatha; Martin, Haikael D.; Kulwa, Kissa; Petrucka, Pammla
This study determined overweight and obesity prevalence and its association with dietary habits in primary school children in Ilala and Mkuranga Districts, Tanzania. A comparative cross-sectional survey was carried out among 406 school children (10- 13 years). Indices such as weight, height, mid-upper arm circumference, and body composition were measured. Body Mass Index-for-age-related Z-scores were computed using the World Health Organization's AnthroPlusTM software to classify children's nutrition status according to the defined cut-off values. A structured questionnaire collected dietary habits data. Descriptive, non-parametric methods and regression were used for analysis. A combined prevalence of overweight and obesity was 22.6%, significantly higher in private than in public schools (32.4% vs. 14.8%, p<0.001). Prevalence of thinness was 3.9% and stunting was 10.1%. It is clear that medians for body mass index for age (p=0.002), percentage body fat (p<0.001), and mid-upper arm circumference (p<0.001) were significantly higher in private schools than in public schools. Girls also had higher median BMI-for-age (p=0.021), percentage body fat (p<0.001), and mid-upper arm circumference (0.006) than boys. Consumption of fruits, vegetables, and milk was relatively low in all participants. Intake of cereal foods and sugary snacks among boys and low preference for fruit among girls was associated with high median BMI-for-age (p<0.05). The prevalence of overweight and obesity among school children is high. Median BMI-for-age was associated with selected dietary habits. Context-specific school-based interventions are fundamental in reducing the prevalence of overweight/obesity and modifying the dietary habits of school children after formulating policy options.
Contribution of fish in improving micronutrients content in complementary foods for children aged 6 to 23 months in Lindi Rural District
(Academic Journals, 2021) Masanja, Hope; Jumbe, Theresia; Pacific, Renatha
Lindi region has high stunting prevalence of about 35%, and one of the factors that cause stunting is inadequate intake of micronutrients for children under 2 years old. This study aimed at assessing contribution of fish in improving micronutrients, specifically vitamin A, zinc and iron contents in complementary foods for children aged 6 to 23 months old children in Lindi Rural District. A cross- sectional study was done; interviews were conducted on 212 caregivers with children aged 6 to 23 months at Mchinga Ward. Information collected includes demographic information and commonly consumed complementary foods for targeted children through the use of 24 h dietary recall. Also, laboratory analysis for zinc, iron, vitamin A contents and proximate composition were done for commonly consumed foods. About 89.2% of children were given fish-based complementary foods. On average, fish-based complementary foods had higher vitamin A concentrations (279 μg RE/100 g serving) compared to non-fish-based complementary foods (4 μg RE/100 g serving), but low in iron and zinc concentrations (0.66 and 0.067 mg/100 g serving, respectively) than non-fish-based complementary foods (0.74 and 0.074 mg/100 g serving respectively). Furthermore, fish-based complementary foods had higher proximate composition (except for % moisture content) compared to non-fish-based complementary foods.
Contribution of home and school environment in children’s food choice and overweight/obesity prevalence in African context: evidence for creating enabling healthful food environment
(DovePress, 2020) Pacific, Renatha; Martin, Haikael D.; Kulwa, Kissa; Petrucka, Pammla
Abstract: This review aimed primarily to investigate the current trends of overweight and obesity in school children in the African context, secondly to explore the contribution of home and school environments on the children’s food choices and lastly suggesting measures for creating a healthier food environment. Despite the increase in overweight and obesity among school children, empirical evidence on their determinants in the African context is scarce, thus calls for consideration of home and school environments. A literature search was conducted between October and December 2018 using Medline (PubMed), Directory of Open Access Journals, Google Scholar, manual search and “grey” literature. This review included articles published between the 1st January 2008 and 30th June 2018. Out of 343 articles, 49 were included for the full text reading after meeting the inclusion criteria. Five reports from grey literature were also included. Results show that the prevalence of over- weight and obesity among school children in Africa is increasing and ranges from <5% to >40% in the 10-year period in which the review was taken. High socio-economic status, urban residence and female gender predicted higher prevalence of overweight/obesity. Few reviewed articles on the contribution of home and school environments on children’s food choices showed a shred of evidence, thus calls for further research to address this gap. This review found an increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in school children in Africa. Therefore, further investigation of home and school environment is imperative to curb the increase in the magnitude of overweight and obesity.
Sensory quality, price sensitivity, and perceived value as determinants of pigeon pea noodle purchase decisions
(Cogent Food & Agriculture, 2026) Majili, Zahra Saidi; Rybak, Constance
Understanding factors that drive consumer purchasing decisions is crucial for promoting value-added food products. This study investigated the influence of sensory attributes, perceived value, and price sensitivity on consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for pigeon pea-based noodles (PPBn) in Ruangwa and nachingwea districts, lindi region, Tanzania. a total of 107 consumers evaluated PPBn attributes and propose their preferred price. The mean household food expenditure was 13,625 ± 1653.8 TZS/week during the harvesting season and 25,176 ± 5485.8 TZS/week during the lean season. consumers (52%) spent between 2,500 and 10,000 TZS/day on household food. The majority of consumers (86%) showed willingness to buy the developed PPBn at a median price of 2,000 TZS (iQR = 1,500–2,200) per 1000 g. expenditure per day, package size, and price significantly influenced willingness to pay (χ2 = 27.402, p < 0.005) for the developed noodles. The colour, taste, and aroma of PPBn were perceived to be good, with differences in mouthfeel scores among samples. Sensory attributes, perceived value, and price sensitivity significantly influenced consumers’ willingness to pay for pigeon pea-based noodles. To enhance adoption and market acceptance, producers should focus on improving sensory quality, offering competitively priced and appropriately packaged products, and increasing consumer awareness. These strategies can boost consumption and support nutrition efforts in pigeon pea-producing communities
Adoption of processing technologies and innovative food preservation techniques: findings from smallholders in the Lindi Region in Tanzania
(Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2024) Sarr, Malika; Majili, Zahra; Khalili, Niloofar; Matavel, Custodio E.; Mbwana, Hadijah A.; Kaingo, Jacob; Löhr, Katharina; Rybak, Constance
Adopting processing technologies and innovative food preservation is crucial for improving the food security and nutritional status of rural populations in Tanzania and other countries in the Global South. However, low adoption rates among smallholders highlight the need for a better understanding of farmers’ decision-making processes. The aim of this study is to examine extrinsic and intrinsic factors influencing smallholders’ decision-making processes in the adoption of innovative food processing and preservation techniques (specifically, pigeon pea flour-based products, threshers, dehullers) in Mitumbati and Mibure in the Lindi Region in Tanzania. Primary data on 555 farm households were collected using a standardized survey. Extrinsic influential factors were analyzed using binary logistic regression analysis. The results on internal decision-making are based on an analysis of barriers and motivations identified by farmers in relation to the uptake of the different innovations. Training and awareness emerged as the most significant factors positively associated with the adoption of all innovative processing and preservation techniques. Moreover, the results show that the primary drivers for smallholders in the study region to adopt innovative technologies were the potential health benefits and time savings they offered. The main challenge they faced was a lack of knowledge about the innovations. The results indicate that disseminating knowledge is crucial for the successful adoption of innovative processing technology in the study region. Improving and expanding training programs to be more inclusive can help to create incentives and overcome barriers, leading to increased adoption.
Influence of socio-demographic factors on dietary diversity among pregnant business women in Tunduma town council, Tanzania
(European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety, 2025) Peter, Senorina; Mosha, Theobald; Majili, Zahra
Background: Dietary diversity was a key factor in nutritional sufficiency particularly for business women who struggle to access diverse nutrients rich foods due to socio economic and occupational pressures that limited their access to nutrient-rich foods. Methods: The panel longitudinal study examined the influence of socio demographic factors on dietary diversity of 223 pregnant business women attending antenatal clinics from their second trimesters to term. Data collected from November 2024 up to May 2025 at baseline (Socio demographic factors and dietary diversity) and dietary diversity was included during endline. The Minimum Dietary Diversity for women (MDD-W) was based on 10 food groups as recommended by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and seven days food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intake of pregnant women. Results: The mean age of the women was 29.58± 6.96 (SD), among them 110 (49.3%) were aged between 20 and 35 years. The findings revealed that at baseline 55.6% of the pregnant business women had inadequate dietary diversity and slightly improved during endline with 65.5% exhibiting adequate dietary diversity. The consumption of cereal base foods was high at both baseline (100%) and endline (100%) while intake of other food groups show that vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables rising from 49.7% to 66.4%, eggs from 39% to 63.2%, meat, poultry and fish from 43.5% to 62.2%. The increase of consumption occurred due to changes of meal when mothers delivery. Based on binary regression model the findings showed that at baseline and endline demographic factors particularly age (AOR=2.24, 95% CI: 2.04-2.44), education level (AOR=1.41, 95% CI 1.21-1.61, and income (AOR=1.82, 95% CI: 1.62-2.02), type of business (AOR=1.45 95% CI: 1.25-1.65), marital status (AOR=1.32, 95% CI: 1.12-1.52) and household size(AOR= 1.45, 95% CI: 1.23-1.63) significantly influenced minimum dietary diversity among respondents. Conclusion: Dietary pattern during pregnancy suggested potential risks for micronutrient deficiencies due to suboptimal consumption of diversified food groups. Government, health care providers, NGOs and other stakeholders should implement nutritional counseling before pregnancy, improve access to diverse local food markets and enhance fortification programs
Pigeon peas: an opportunity for improving nutrient content of food consumed among resource-poor households to ensure sustainable health
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Majili, Z.
Pigeon pea is an affordable legume and important source of protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Despite its nutritional importance, the crop has not been adequately utilized for human consumption in Tanzania due to limited recipes, knowledge and inadequate agricultural development. This study aimed utilising pigeon peas to enrich the nutrient content of food consumed among resource poor households Laboratory-based experiments and consumer preference tests were conducted in Morogoro and Lindi regions. A total of 452 consumers were involved to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. Analysis of Variance was used to check whether there is a difference between sample means. Tukey test was used to determine differences between the samples at p<0.05. Pigeon pea-based noodles, instant porridge, chapatti, biscuits, African doughnut and bread were developed and tested for their sensory attributes at a five-point Likert scale. Developed products had more than 50% of recommended intake of protein, iron, zinc and pro vitamin A. Highest preference scores for colour, aroma and mouthfeel were observed in all pigeon pea-based products with differences between samples. Samples PPBN718 (noodles), PPIPofspr (porridge), PPBS123 (biscuit), PPBC412 (chapatti), PPAD234 (African doughnut) and PPBB917 (bread) were most preferred among others. The Pairwise Comparison counts indicated that 87% of consumers most preferred instant porridge and 58% preferred the bread. The reason for preferences differs significantly among age groups and sex. Incorporate pigeon peas flour into different foods significantly improve the nutrient content of developed foods products. This creates an opportunity of pigeon peas to enrich different foods products.
Exploring the preferences of developed value-added pigeon peas-based noodles and instant porridge among different consumer segments in rural Tanzania
(African Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2024) Majili, Zahra; Nyaruhucha, Cornelio N.; Rybak, Constance
Quantitative descriptive analyses for developed pigeon peas-based noodles (PPBN) and instant porridge (PPIP) has been done to quantify the perceived intensities of the sensory attributes. This does not inform about consumers’ preferences of the product that is fundamental for sustainable consumption. Therefore, this study aimed at assessing the preferences of developed PPBN and PPIP products. A total of 162 consumers residing in Mitumbati and Mibure villages in Nachingwea and Ruangwa districts respectively, were involved. Data were analysed using SPSS, R software and Consumer checker software. About 46% of consumers were aged 25 - 49 years, 73% were female, married (70%), farmers (86%) and 77% had primary school education. The highest mean preference scores for colour, aroma and mouthfeel were observed in sample PPBN 718 and PPIPofspr. The correlation loadings indicated the overall liking of sample PPBN718 was related to colour and aroma whereas for sample PPIPofspr was related with mouthfeel, sweetness, colour and aroma attributes. Study revealed that colour, aroma and mouthfeel the key attributes for product preferences. It is recommended that consumers’ preferences test should be considered during product development in order to come up with the best choice of product that will be acceptable among the intended consumers
Development and profiling of affordable and nutritionally optimal pigeon pea- based products for improved recipes diversification in rural communities in Tanzania
(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2023) Majili, S. Z.; Nyaruhucha, C.; Kulwa, K.; Rybak, C.
Pigeon pea is an affordable source of protein, vitamins and minerals. Despite its nutritional importance, the legume has not been adequately utilized for human consumption in Tanzania due to limited recipes. Therefore, the study aimed to develop and profile quantitative attributes of value-added pigeon pea-based noodles (PPBN) and instant porridge (PPIP) flour for diversification of recipes in rural Tanzania communities. The computation on the amount of ingredients, the cost of the product mix and optimization was done using Linear programming, simplex method. PPBN and PPIP were developed and Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA) was done by trained panelists. Data were analysed using R and XLSTAT software. Eight and four samples of PPBN and PPIP respectively were formulated and developed. Major ingredients for PPBN was pigeon pea, wheat and orange flesh sweet potatoes flour and for PPIP was pigeon pea, maize, orange flesh sweet potatoes flour (or pumpkin flour). The protein content for PPBN ranged from 41.0 to 58.2 g. The highest amount of iron content was observed in sample PPBN193 (26.4 mg), followed by PPBN1718 (21.0 mg), PPBN267 (19.3 mg) and PPBN136 (18.3mg). The highest value of zinc and pro-vitamin A was observed in sample PPBN136. For instant porridge the highest value of protein (17.1 g), iron (7.9 g), zinc (5.4 mg) and pro-vitamin A (308.5 μg) was observed in sample PPIPofspr . The highest mean intensity score for colour, aroma and mouthfeel was observed in samples PPBN718, PPBN193 and PPBN136. For sample PPIPofspr , colour (8.7) Aroma (7.7), mouthfeel (7.8), sweetness (7.1) and viscosity (7.9) had the highest mean intensity score. There was a significant increase in protein, iron, zinc and pro- vitamin A with an increase in the amount of pigeon pea and/or orange flesh sweet potato flour. Sample PPBN718, PPBN193, PPBN136 and PPIPofspr had better nutritional and sensory qualities that make them suitable for consumption.
Optimizing wheat gluten levels to improve textural integrity and sensory appeal in pigeon pea enriched noodles
(Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences, 13(5): 224-236, 2025) Dotto, Shakira Rashid; Majili, Zahra; Chaula, Davis; Alamu, Emmanuel Oladeji; Baijukya, Frederick
Noodles made exclusively from pigeon pea flour often display undesirable textural characteristics, such as brittleness, poor mouthfeel and a lack of the chewiness typically associated with traditional wheat-based noodles. These shortcomings can significantly impact consumer acceptability and overall eating quality. Incorporating vital wheat gluten, a protein known for its viscoelastic properties, offers a promising strategy to improve the structural integrity, elasticity and sensory appeal of pigeon pea-based noodle formulations. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of varying levels of vital wheat gluten (VWG) on the textural and sensory qualities of pigeon pea-based noodles (PPBN). Two optimized experimental samples PPBN 718 and PPBN 193 designed to meet adult dietary protein and mineral requirements were prepared with three concentrations of VWG (2%, 4% and 6%). Texture Profile Analysis (TPA), Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA), Consumer Preference Analysis (n=75) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were conducted to assess product quality. Results indicated that formulation B193 consistently outperformed formulation A718 across all quality parameters, exhibiting significantly higher hardness, elasticity and overall consumer acceptability (P <0.05). Notably, PPBN193-2 achieved the highest overall acceptability score (7.41±0.59). In contrast, formulation PPBN 718-3 showed diminished performance. PCA results revealed that color was a dominant driver of sensory variation, while aroma, taste and mouthfeel clustered together, suggesting a potential trade-off between visual appeal and other sensory attributes. The superior performance of PPBN193-2 was attributed to the synergistic interaction between its unique flour composition including orange-fleshed sweet potato flour and VWG, which together, formed a more cohesive protein-starch matrix. These findings suggest that incorporating VWG at an optimal concentration of 4% can significantly enhance the textural integrity and sensory quality of legume-based noodles, particularly when used in well-optimized formulations like PPBN 193. This research supports the development of nutritionally enriched and consumer acceptable legume-based noodle products for broader market adoption.
Prevalence of child malnutrition and factors associated with it: a case study of Morogoro urban
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1992) Ishengoma, Christina
The problem of malnutrition is chronic all over the world, and protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is the commonest form of malnutrition especially in developing countries. This study examined the prevalence of child malnutrition and factors associated with it in Morogoro Urban, Tanzania. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested questionnaire to a sample of 198 mother-child pairs drawn randomly from those attending maternal and child health (MCH) clinics in Morogoro Urban. Questionnaires were also administered to MCH coordinators (Nutrition Rehabilitation Unit) workers/nurses. Secondary data were collected from other relevant sources. Statistics such as frequencies, means, median, standard deviations and percentages were calculated. Chi-squares, multiple regression, correlation coefficient and Path Coefficient analysis were performed. Results showed that malnutrition rate in Morogoro Urban is still high. More than 30 percent of sampled children were malnourished. The most prevalent forms of malnutrition were: underweight followed by Kwashiorkor and Marasmus. The factors associated with malnourished are analysed, discussed and reported. Recommendations given to alleviate the malnutrition problem in Morogoro Urban included among others: the need for a multidisciplinary action programme on nutrition education at household level; mothers should be encouraged to engage in income generating projects; the need for the Government to subsidize the costs in hiring tractors for cultivation and mothers should be encouraged to wean and feed their children as recommended. The Government and other relevant institutions should ensure that women have access to appropriate technologies to reduce their heavy workload.
Influence of quality attributes on the markert value of sweet potatoes tubers and processed cassava
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Ndunguru, Abriel T.
Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz} roots and sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L) Lam) tubers are important staple food crops in several areas of Tanzania. Studies were conducted in Mwanza and Dar es Salaam markets in order to assess the factors that influence the quality and market value relationship of fresh sweet potato tubers and processed cassava roots. Consumers and traders in Mwanza preferred sweet potato tubers which are wholesome and free from infestation. White processed cassava root products were preferred by traders and consumers in Mwanza. Valuation assessment made on sweet potatoes showed that, broken, cut and weevil infested tubers sold were at 12.1, 14.2 and 36.6 percent discount respectively. Average valuation discount of processed cassava roots were 10 to 15 for yellow, 20 to 25 for greenish and 35 to 40 percent for dark product. Causes of losses in quality of sweet potato tubers were due to operations related to handling and transportation. Occurrence of broken tubers, skinning injury and cuts increased significantly with handling and transportation (P < 0.001). The largest loss in quality occurred between the lakeshore and the port at Mwanza when sacks were loaded and unloaded from the ship and handled at the port.

Browse

Recent Submissions