Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection

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Effect of processing on nutritional and sensory quality of orange-fleshed sweet potato’s porridge and Ugali (stiff-porridge) consumed in the Lake Zone, Tanzania
(Science Publishing Group, 2025-06-03) Issa-Zacharia Abdulsudi; Chuwa Caresma
The orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) is a nutrient-rich crop with high β-carotene content, which helps prevent vitamin A deficiency (VAD). However, its semi-perishability requires proper processing to preserve its nutritional and sensory properties. This study assessed the effects of sun and solar drying on the proximate composition, β-carotene, vitamin C, mineral content, and sensory attributes of OFSP porridge and Ugali (stiff porridge) consumed in the Lake zone of Tanzania. Three variety of OFSP; Ejumla, Jewel, and Carrot Dar, were subjected to solar or sun-drying and subsequently processed into flour. The resulting flours were used to produce porridge and Ugali (stiff porridge). Conventional techniques were employed to evaluate the proximate composition, β-carotene, vitamin C, and micronutrient content of porridge and Ugali (stiff porridge). Additionally, sensory analysis was performed to assess the level of acceptability of the items' sensory qualities. There was a significant difference in moisture content, crude protein, and crude fat between porridge and Ugali (stiff porridge) for all three varieties of OFSP (p<0.05). Moreover, solar-dried products had higher retention of β-carotene (28.79 mg/100 g) and vitamin C (3.29-10.45 mg/100 g). Sun-dried products had lower mineral content than solar-dried products. There was also a significant difference (p<0.05) between solar and sun-dried products in all tested essential minerals. The nutrients analyzed were more concentrated in stiff porridge than in regular porridge, such as calcium (21.65mg/100g), potassium (90.70mg/100g), Sodium (169.98mg/100g), magnesium (13.26mg/100g) and zinc (0.51mg/100g). Solar-dried items had the highest acceptability scores (3.0–3.9) compared to sun-dried products, with Ejumla being the most preferred. The findings depict that solar drying preserves OFSP-based food's nutritional and sensory quality better. Solar-dried OFSP may reduce vitamin A deficiency (VAD) and improve nutritional security in Tanzania.
Food safety challenges related to meat, fish, and poultry handling and processing in developing countries
(Urmia University, 2025) Zacharia,Abdulsudi Issa; Ghosse,Mourice; Matondo,Joachim Dotto; Muhimbula,Happiness Samuel; Saleh,Hafidhi Nassor
Animal-derived proteins, mainly coming from meat, fish, and poultry, are vital for ensuring nutrition security, especially in many developing countries. However, poor handling practices throughout the supply chain pose serious risks of foodborne illnesses. This review explores the safety challenges related to the handling and processing of these items in developing nations. It highlights key shortcomings in pre-harvest management, such as weak veterinary oversight and limited disease control at the primary production stage. It also points out processing and distribution as potential contamination points, often worsened by poor temperature control, inconsistent application of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems, and infrastructural issues. Globally, contaminated food causes about 10% of yearly illnesses, leading to roughly 420000 deaths. Therefore, strengthening quality and safety management systems at all stages—from production and processing to distribution and consumer handling—is crucial so stakeholders along the supply chain can effectively reduce these risks and protect public health. This review stresses the need for better veterinary services, improved disease management protocols, and strict safety practices to tackle these ongoing issues. Governments, companies, and NGOs should work on upgrading infrastructure, hygiene standards, and training, along with implementing regulations, to improve food safety management from farm to fork.
Enhancing the safety of meat products through chemical and microbiological control: a review
(European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety, 2025-05-06) Issa-Zacharia Abdulsudi; Mkumbukwa Nyomolelo
In today's market, consumers are increasingly demanding meat that is not only safe and of the highest quality but also minimally processed and free from unnecessary additives. To meet these evolving expectations, innovative antimicrobial systems and advanced technologies are being developed, aligning with modern trends and lifestyles. From the moment of slaughter to the point of sale, meat is vulnerable to contamination from various sources, both internal and external. These protective approaches help consumer health by lowering the frequency of foodborne pathogens, which include Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and E. coli, among others, that trigger illness. Implementing rigorous hygienic practices is crucial to minimising microbial risks during processing. Chemical and microbiological control measures, such as the use of organic acids, nitrates, nitrites, bacteriocins, and stringent temperature regulation, are employed to safeguard meat quality. The preservation technology enables microbial deactivation alongside meat quality maintenance and
Evaluation of food safety knowledge, attitude and hygienic practices among food service workers in hotels, restaurants and street food stands in Morogoro, Tanzania
(Tehran University of Medical Sciences., 2024-09-03) Issa-Zacharia Abdulsudi; Soingei Regina Mewasa; Richard Anold
Foodborne infections are a global problem, especially in developing nations. These infections mostly spread in homes, restaurants, and other public places. Thus, promoting food safety knowledge, attitudes, and hygienic behaviors is essential. The aim of this study was to assess the level of food safety knowledge attitude and hygienic practices among food service workers in hotels, restaurants and street food stands. A cross-sectional study carried out during February to May 2024 in Morogoro Municipality examined 75 hotel, restaurant, and street food vendors' food safety knowledge, attitudes, and hygienic practices using structured questionnaires and an observation checklist. Food service workers were tested on pathogens, cleanliness, and handling. Correct answers got points; scores below 50% indicated insufficient knowledge. Food safety attitudes contained 10 questions with 10% points for accurate answers. Food service workers in hotels had significantly (p<0.05) superior food safety knowledge (94.65%), attitude (95.60%), and hygienic practices (98.25%) compared to those in restaurants and street food stands. The food service workers at street food stands had the lowest ratings in terms of their knowledge (50.65%), attitude (40.40%), and hygienic practices (45.75%). Restaurant food service workers scored 66.97%, 69.2% and 83.02% for food safety knowledge, attitude, and hygienic practices, respectively, and these were significantly (p<0.05) higher than those obtained from street food stand and lower than hotel service workers. Hotel staff demonstrated superior food safety knowledge, attitude, and practices compared to street vendors. Food safety in Morogoro Municipality requires intense training, regulatory supervision, local authority cooperation, and continual study and monitoring
Evaluation of food safety knowledge among food service workers and microbial contamination of food contact surfaces in University Restaurants in Morogoro Tanzania
(Science Publishing Group, 2025-02-24) Issa-Zacharia Abdulsudi; Lubanji Rahel Yohana; Matondo Joachim Dotto
Foodborne illnesses, a significant global health concern, are primarily attributable to microbial contamination. Inadequate food handling, substandard safety measures, and a lack of awareness exacerbate this issue. This study aimed to evaluate the food safety knowledge of food service workers and the microbial status of food contact surfaces in university restaurants in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted, employing a structured questionnaire and observational checklist. A total of 40 food service workers from four University restaurants participated. Standard methodologies for microbial analysis were employed to determine the Total Viable Count and Total Coliform Count, which indicated the degree of microbiological contamination on food-contact surfaces. SPSS version 27 was used to compute the frequency and percentages. Results demonstrate that the majority of respondents exhibited exemplary hygienic practices, with 50% regularly washing hands during meal preparations and 92.5% recognizing the importance of a clean workspace. All participants (100%) utilized protective gloves and were more cognizant of the hazards of handling food without them. In terms of food safety awareness, Mzumbe University led with a mean score of 92.80±7.495, reflecting strong food safety knowledge, while Jordan University had the lowest mean of 68.40±5.15, indicating notable gaps in training and practices. Surprisingly, Mzumbe University restaurants exhibited the highest level of microbiological contamination, with spoons and plates demonstrating Total Viable Count values of 4.75 and 4.61 log10CFU/ml, respectively, despite a superior score in food safety knowledge that was obtained. Total coliform contamination on food surfaces was detected in various campus restaurants, with levels ranging from 2.81 to 3.79 log10CFU/ml, highlighting the necessity for enhanced sanitation measures. To enhance food safety in university restaurants, comprehensive training for food service staff on hygiene and food safety is essential. Implementing routine microbial monitoring, strict cleaning protocols, and regular safety audits can significantly reduce foodborne illness risks and ensure a safe dining environment for patrons.
Agricultural health and safety
(Elsevier Inc, 2024) Zacharia Abdulsudi Issa; Matondo Joachim Dotto
Employing over a third of the global workforce, agriculture remains a pivotal yet inherently risky sector. In many regions, family farms expose individuals, including children, to diverse hazards. The physical nature of the work poses musculoskel- etal and noise-induced hearing risks, while chemical agents like pesticides and toxins pose potentially even greater dangers. Recognizing these evolving threats, this chapter outlines pertinent challenges and explores evidence-based approaches to safeguard agricultural communities, paving the way for a safer and more sustainable future.
Influence of familiarity on consumer acceptance of value-added products from Justicia heterocarpa leaves
(Urmia University, 2025-08-15) Issa-Zacharia Abdulsudi; Nyamete Frida Albinus; Swai Zenorina Aloyce
This study investigated the sensory perception and consumer acceptability of value-added products derived from Justicia heterocarpa, an underutilized indigenous leafy vegetable with potential nutritional benefits. A total of 110 participants, comprising 80 semi-trained students unfamiliar with J. heterocarpa and 30 untrained university workers familiar with J. heterocarpa in term of consumption and utilization. Four samples (freshly harvested, blanched dried, unblanched dried, and fermented) were tested for consumer acceptability using a 9-point hedonic scale. The results revealed a significant influence of the panelists on flavor (p < 0.001) and overall acceptability (p = 0.003) among familiar and unfamiliar panelists. Unfamiliar panelists rated the flavor and general acceptability of the fermented vegetables higher. There were significant differences in color (p < 0.0001), flavor (p = 0.0002), and general acceptability (p = 0.0235) between the familiar and unfamiliar groups. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between general acceptability of flavor (r = 0.81) and texture (r = 0.65). Principal component analysis identified flavor and texture as the primary drivers of overall acceptance. These findings offer valuable insights into the development of palatable processed J. heterocarpa. These findings underscore the importance of carefully considering the effects of different processing methods when formulating product development strategies to enhance consumer acceptance.
Revisiting chemical and microbiological quality and safety of fish and fish products
(Science Publishing Group, 2025-09-04) Issa-Zacharia Abdulsudi; Mboya, Goodchance Revingstone; Msangi Riziki Salehe
Fish and fishery products constitute a primary global food source, providing essential protein and nutrients. Ensuring their safety and quality throughout the supply chain is paramount. The safety and quality of fish and fish products are paramount considerations in the global food industry but their quality and safety may be compromised at various stages of transport, handling, and processing. The major contaminants of fish and fish products are chemical and microbiological in nature. Chemical contaminants commonly found in fish, including heavy metals, pesticides, and persistent organic pollutants which pose significant risks to consumers. Microbiological contaminants are both pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms such as Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and Vibrio spp which are often implicated in foodborne illnesses associated with seafood consumption. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the chemical and microbiological contaminants facing the fish industry while advocating for enhanced regulatory frameworks and sustainable practices to ensure consumer safety as well as modern methods for detecting these microorganisms, including molecular techniques like PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and biosensors that enhance detection sensitivity.
Sensory evaluation of different preparations of cassava leaves from three species as a leafy vegetable
(African Journal of Biotechnology, 2013-11-13) Umuhozariho, M. G; Shayo, N. B; Sallah, P. Y. K; Msuya, J. M
Cassava leaves are largely consumed in Africa and are among the top three African indigenous vegetables rich in nutrients. Leaves from bitter (Manihot utilissima), sweet (Manihot dulcis) and wild (Manihot glaziovii) species of cassava were cooked by boiling in salted (sodium bicarbonate and table salt) water with the addition of palm oil and ground-nut paste, following processing by “pounding”, “pounding and then drying” and, “drying and then pounding”. The drying was done in tunnel solar drier at temperature of 65°C on average. Nine samples (three species x three processing methods) were evaluated by 31 panelists, using a five point hedonic scale, where 5 = like very much and 1= dislike very much. Cassava species affected significantly (p = 0.0047; 0.0206) scoring for texture and overall acceptability, respectively, but not for colour, aroma and taste. Processing method highly significantly (p< 0.0001) affected all the sensory attributes scoring. Leaves from all three species were liked as leafy vegetable, except when pounded after drying.
Physico-Chemical and grain cooking characteristics of selected rice cultivars grown in Morogoro
(2006) Shayo, N. B.; Mamiro, P.; Nyaruhucha, C. N. M; Mamboleo, T
A study was carried out at Sokoine University of Agriculture to characterize the local rice varieties grown in Morogoro Region basing on their physical-chemical characteristics and cooking quality parameters. Five cultivars of rice were analyzed and these included Kaling’anaula, Kihogo Red, Salama M17, Supa and Salama. The samples were collected from Crop museum, SUA. The chemical analysis was done to determine the proximate composition, gelatinization temperature and gel consistency as main determinants of cooking quality, sensory evaluation tests was done as determinants for consumer acceptance. The proximate composition results indicated protein content values between 7.94 and 9.46%, ash content between 0.55 and 0.97%, fat content between 0.57 and 0.85%, fiber content between 0.29 to 0.73%. The amylose content values were between 18.25 and 19.25%. The gel consistency results showed that all cultivars analysed were hard with the gel length values between 27.50 and 31.80 mm There was a significant differences in composition as well as acceptability between the varieties. In all aspects, Supa cultivar appeared to be the most superior with mean score of 4.30 while Kihogo Red was the least superior with mean score of 2.93. The differences in the cultivars could be from environmental as well as genetic factors. This pauses a need for more studies to be directed to these factors in order to come up with useful alternatives on how to manipulate them so as to improve the cooking quality parameters, improve production of the local rice cultivars and increase the market demand for local rice.
Utilization of cassava leaves as a vegetable in Rwanda
(Rwanda Journal, 2011) Umuhozariho, M. G; Shayo, N.B; Msuya, J. M; Sallah, P. Y. K
Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) leaves is an important vegetable in Rwanda. The objectives of this study were to determine cassava species from which leaves are harvested as vegetable and identify leaf preparation methods, consumption rate, price variation, storability and perception of post-harvest losses. A pre-tested structured questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions was administered to stratified groups of cassava leaves producers and consumers in four purposively selected sectors of Ruhango District and retailers in the main markets of Ruhango and Kigali city. In total, 171 respondents were interviewed from 11 to 26 August 2011. Cassava leaves are highly consumed in Ruhango District as 96.0 % of families harvested leaves for food. On average, 17.5 % of farmers sell cassava leaves that are retailed in markets of towns and cities including Kigali City. Sweet (Manihot dulcis), bitter (Manihot utilissima) and wild (Manihot glaziovii) are the cassava species from which leaves are consumed as vegetable, but the leaves of wild cassava are preferred by 66.0 % of consumers. Prices of cassava leaves varied significantly (p=0.0182) according to season with higher prices in the dry than rainy season. Prices of leaves at farm gate and retail levels were highly different (p= 0.0016), averaging 32 and 65 Frw by bunch in the rainy season, respectively. Despite the high consumption and trade of cassava leaves, post-harvest losses were high, especially in the rainy season. Cassava leaves were mainly cooked fresh, but 15.4 % of households processed leaves by sun drying. The storage period was extended to two months by sun-drying. In each case and, prior to cooking, cassava leaves were pounded. Cassava leaves are considered as a favourite and nutritive vegetable and technologies to improve storability, value and trade are needed. Assessment of effects of processing on nutritional quality and safety is also important
Isolation and characterisation of yeasts and bacteria from Mbege- An opaque Beerr made from millet malt and banana juice
(Tanzania J. AgriC. Sc, 1998) Shayo, N. B; Nnko, S. A. M; Gidamis, B
The micro organism involved in the traditional fermentation process of "mbege ",an indigenous Tanzanian alcohol beverage prepared from malted millet and banana juice were isolated and identified saccharomyces cerrevisiae and lactobacillus plantarum whereidentified as yeast and bacteria responsible for the fermentantion process respectivelly. The main spoilage micro-organism of Mbege was identified as of Acetobacter species. A diverse range of micro-organisms were also identified in the mlliet malt .The coliforms were the predominant ones followed by pseudomonads, lactic acid bacteria(LAB) and yeasts. The presence of high numbers of coliforms (l.98+0.20x 107 ) in millet malt poses no health risk as they are destroyed during porridge preparation. In addition the low PH ( ph4.5 ) of mbege in hibits the growth of coliforms and other pathogenic bacteria. The diverse range of micro-organisms founds in millet malt was an indication of unhygienic handling of millet malt,
Colour and antioxidant activities of honey from different floral sources and geographical origins in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2016) Shekilango, S. G; Mongi, R. J; Shayo, N. B
Honey is a sweet, yellowish liquid that is produced by honey bees and it has been used for many years for nutrition and therapeutic purposes. Its therapeutic potential has been associated to its antioxidant capacity which plays an important protective role in human health through scavenging of free radicals in the human body and thereby decreases the amount of free radical and damage to biological molecules like lipids and DNA. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of floral source (miombo and acacia) and geographical origin (Central, Coastal, Lake, Northern, and Southern Highland) in mainland Tanzania on colour and antioxidant activity of honey samples. Colour, total flavonoids content (TFC), total phenol phenolic contents (TPC) and antioxidant activities of the samples were evaluated using UV/Vis spectrophotometer, Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) methods respectively. There were significant (p<0.05) differences in all parameters assessed between floral sources. Miombo honey samples had higher pfund values (mm) for colour ranged from 31.55 mm (white) to 143.98 (dark amber) than acacia samples with values ranged from 17.33 (extra white) to 62.28 mm (light amber). Miombo samples had higher TFC values of 13.5±0.25-39.9±0.42 mgRE/100g DM) and TPC of 127.9±2.5-395.2 mg GAE/100g DM) than acacia samples with values of 12.7±0.60-17.5±0.38 mgRE/100g DM and 119.5-168.2 mg GAE/100g DM respectively. Similarly, significantly (p<0.05) highest and lowest FRAP values of 488.9-956.3 and 252.6-368.26 μM Fe2+/100g DM were observed in Miombo and acacia honey samples respectively. Moreover, variations in colour, TFC, TPC and FRAP between zones were significant (p<0.05). Within the miombo samples, northern and coastal zones had respective lowest and highest values whereas central and northern zones had respective lowest and highest values within the acacia samples. A strong correlation (R2= 0.942) between TPC and antioxidant activities of honey samples suggest that the antioxidant of honey is highly linked to TPC. Therefore, the study has revealed that, floral sources and geographical origins have varied significant effects on colour, flavonoids, total phenols and antioxidant activities of Mainland Tanzania honey. Honey samples from miombo floral source had higher antioxidant activities and hence their consumption is more recommended.
Physical-chemical properties, storage stability and sensory evaluation of pumpkin seed oil
(2006) Lyimo, M. E.; Shayo, N. B.; Kasanga, A.
Physico-chemical properties, storage stability and sensory evaluation of pumpkin seed oil was carried out and compared with other vegetable oils commonly used in Tanzania in order to evaluate its potential as an edible oil with the aim of promoting its utilization in rural areas. Pumpkin seeds were collected from different farmers in three villages in Morogoro Region, Tanzania. The proximate composition of the seeds was determined using standard methods. Storage stability of the oil was evaluated by monitoring the physicalchemical properties of the oil for 15 weeks following the standard procedures. Acceptability of the oil was determined using a 5 point hedonic scale. Pumpkin seeds contained 34.7%, 15.9%, 3.85% and 44% protein, fat, fibre and carbohydrates, respectively. The specific gravity of the pumpkin seed oil was 0.92; peroxide value 4.6 meq/kg; iodine value 108.4; saponification value 173.0 and acid value of 0.5 mg KOH/g. The pumpkin seed oil was organoleptically acceptable in terms of flavour, taste and odour. The pumpkin seed oil conforms very well with other common edible vegetable oils in Tanzania in terms of physical-chemical properties and sensory evaluation. Farmers should be encouraged to utilize pumpkin seed oil for household consumption
Nutritional status of underfive Children in a Pastoral Community in Simanjiro District, Tanzania
(Tanzania Health Research Bulletin, 2006) Nyaruhucha, C. N. M; Mamiro, P. S; Kerengi, A.J; Shayo, N.B
A study was conducted in Simanjiro district in northern Tanzania to determine the nutritional status of underfive children in a pastoral community. Weight and height measurements were carried out on 250 children and that of mean upper arm circumference (MUAC) on 226 children. The z-scores of weight-for-age, weight-for-height and height-for-age indicated that 31.2% of the children were underweight and 6.0% were severely underweight. Wasting was observed in 17.2% children of whom 3.2% were severely wasted. Severely stunted children were 3.2% while 14% were moderately stunted. Measurements of MUAC indicated that 35% and 3.5% of the children were moderately and severely undernourished, respectively. The nutritional status of the children under study was slightly lower than the national average. In conclusion, malnutrition in Simanjiro district is prevalent, and therefore, appropriate multidisciplinary approach on nutrition education, environmental sanitation and hygienic practices at family and community level need to be promoted to reduce childhood illnesses thereby increasing child health and nutritional status.
Uranium uptake by selected food groups and the associated health effects to the residents of Bahi district in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) MZIRAY,ZAINAB JURAJI
Assessment of Uranium levels in selected food groups and products with the associated health effects to the residents of Bahi District was carried out. The objective was to come up with information on whether these food groups contain significant amounts of Uranium and if the community has been affected by uranium related diseases. This was done to bring the awareness to the vulnerable communities and Tanzanian Government in general on the environmental and health hazards posed by the presence of Uranium deposits in the study area. Selected food groups and products used to assess uranium levels were maize, finger millet, rice. cassava leaves, salt, soda ash, fish, flamingo meat and water. These food groups were collected from three different villages of Bahi district. The levels of uranium in the named food groups and products (in pg kg-1) were determined by using ICP- OES instrument. Maize and rice had uranium concentration below detectable limit (<10), millet was found to range 11.88 - 25.13; cassava leaves ranged 12.37 - 13.83. Fish had uranium content of 17.98 in the skin where as muscles had uranium level below detactable limit. Flamingo bird had uranium level of 31.78 in the liver , where as other tested parts had below detectable limit. Soda ash was found to have uranium content of 1910, whereas salt had uranium content below detectable limit. The results for water from different sources in three villages have shown that, in Hindi village, Playa lake water had uranium concentration of 1233, while drinking water from one well had uranium content of 95.4, water from a well used for irrigation had uranium content below detectable limit. In Mpamantwa village, the water from one well had uranium content of 16.7 whereas other sources had uranium level below detectable limit. In Bahi village, the water from one well had uraniumiii level below detectable limit while river water had uranium concentration of 67.6 and another well had uranium content of 16.6. Secondary data from hospitals have shown that Bahi communities have not been affected by uranium exposure through foods consumed. However, further research need to be conducted on domestic animals since they use lllindi Playa lake water for drinking which was found to have high uranium concentration.
Effect of processing methods on the micronutrient profile, colour, and anti- nutritive components of justicia heterocarpa (mwidu)
(European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety, 2025-02-05) Swai, Zenorina Aloyce; Nyamete, Frida Albinus; Silayo, Valerian. C. K.
Justicia heterocarpa (mwidu) is a popular indigenous leafy vegetable picked wild in rural regions of Morogoro, Tanzania, during the wet seasons. This research examined the impact of processing on micronutrients, total phenols, and anti-nutrient content. The fresh leaves (FL) underwent direct shade drying (UBLDDR), blanched shade drying (BLDR), blanched oven drying (BLDO), fermentation (FFL), and gas and microwave cooking (FLCO5, FLCO10, and FLMCO2). Vitamins, chlorophyll, minerals, phenolic compounds, and anti-nutrients were analyzed. All laboratory experiments adhered to procedures and guidelines. The pH dropped more significantly to <3.5 in a 3% salt-3% sugar brine solution with 1.328 ± 0.006 mg/100 g of lactic acid compared to its counterpart. Blanched leaves dried in 5 days, but unblanched leaves took 15 days. Fermented samples demonstrated a notable reduction in total chlorophyll concentration (0.0964 ± 0.075 mg/g) compared to other processing techniques. The nutritional and anti-nutritional composition of Justicia heterocarpa showed significant change (P < 0.05) depending on processing methods. The results indicated a significant loss of vitamin C in the fermented and ten-minute cooked samples, at 74.57% and 61.64%, respectively.Cooked FLMCO2 (107.4%, 11.29 ± 0.03 mg/100g) and FLCO5 (86.26%, 10.51 ± 0.02 mg/100g) exhibited more than a two-fold increase in beta-carotene compared to fresh leaves (3.67 mg/100g). In comparison to alternative processing procedures, samples cooked for 10 minutes exhibited significant mineral leaching, whereas unblanched direct shade drying preserved the highest mineral concentration. Fermented samples (532.83 ± 14.91 GAE/100 g) exhibited a 64.19% increase in total Phenolic compounds compared to fresh leaves (190.83 ± 14.91 GAE/100 g). Nonetheless, tannins increased by 68.1% (254.44 ± 7.45 GAE/100g) in the fermented samples. Samples exposed to extended cooking (17.8 ± 3.17 mg/100 g) and fermentation (40.28 ± 3.34 mg/100 g) exhibited the lowest levels of phytates. The oxalate concentration was significantly decreased in the cooked samples. Justicia heterocarpa may serve as a sustainable food supply in areas of Tanzania experiencing nutritional deficits.
Epidemiology of tuberculosis in inmates of selected central prisons in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) RUGAMBA,WILSON EMMANUEL
A cross sectional study was carried out to determine prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) among prison inmates and assessed risk factors contributing to the disease in five selected Central prisons namely; Butimba, Isanga, Ruanda, Ukonga and Segerea in Tanzania. The prevalence was established based on sputum smear microscopic examination for Acid Fast Bacilli (AFB). Questionnaires were used to gather information from prison inmates and prison staff about possible risk factors for TB spread in prisons. Due to the current association between HIV infection and TB epidemic, HIV screening was carried out by testing capillary blood adhering to the National algorithm whereby two serial rapid antibody tests namely Alere Determine and Uni-Gold were used. A total of 370 prisoners out of 8330 inmates were involved and the overall prevalence of TB was 3.8%. On commencement of the survey, 71 prisoners (0.85%, n=71; N=8330) from studied prisons were under anti TB treatment. The overall prevalence of HIV in studied Prisons was 5.4%. Il was also noted that overcrowding, poor ventilation, poor prison architecture, history of TB contact, HIV infection, smoking cigarettes, and limited knowledge on TB to prisoners were the risk factors for TB in prisons. The present study confirms the high prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis in prison populations, thus suggest not only active transmission of the disease in the prison settings but also the need for executing urgent preventive measures.
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practices on breastfeeding among HIV infected mothers with infants in Kibaha town council
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) RWERAMIRA,MARGARETH CLEMENT
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) on breastfeeding among HIV-infected mothers are important in determining the health and nutritional status of their children. The HIV pandemic and the risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV, especially through breastfeeding (BF) poses special difficulties to HIV-infected mothers, their infants and the community. This study was designed to assess KAP on breastfeeding among HIV-infected mothers having children aged 0-12 months living in Kibaha Town Council. A cross-sectional, descriptive study design was employed and convenient sampling procedure was used to select the respondents. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaire which were administered by face to face interview. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) 15.0 version computer software. The study findings revealed that there is limitation in terms of KAP on BF, complementation and infant feeding options among the HIV-infected mothers. Breastfeeding was chosen by majority of respondents (96%) compared to replacement feeding (6%). About 76% of mothers ceased to practice EBF before their infants were six months old due to fear of MTCT of HIV. The study also revealed that mothers’ level of education was significantly associated with their knowledge (p = 0.00403). Mixed feeding (63.6%) and nipple cracks (77.8%) were the most known factors by the respondents to increase the risk of MTCT of HIV. Breast conditions such as sore/cracked nipples; fear of stigma; lack of counselling and follow up from the health workers; and cultural beliefs such as BF by using one breast were observed as the constraints faced by the respondents. Counselling services on infant feeding options, regular follow to mothers and more training to the counsellors on BF and PMTCT of HIV need to be strengthened
Farmers' knowledge and traditional processing practices of pigeon peas (cajanus cajan) in rural areas in Lindi region Tanzania: a quantitative and qualitative mixed study
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2024) Tiisekwa, A.B; Chove,B.E; Mongi,R; Rybak, C; Stuetz, W.
Pigeon peas (Cajanus cajan) are an important protein source in many parts of tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. However, their quality and availability may be affected by post- harvest handling and processing practices in use. In the present study, knowledge and practices of pigeon pea growers (PPG) in Lindi Region were evaluated with respect to harvesting, storage, processing and cooking preparation. A sample of 597 randomly selected PPG from two villages, were interviewed and 60 farmers participated in focus group discussions. Majority PPG (83.6%) harvested pigeon peas (PPs) by cutting and putting them in polyethylene sacks while 86.6% had knowledge on only one storage method. Also, majority of PPG (77%) lacked any processing knowledge on mentioned methods such as hulling and solar drying. Results also indicated 75.7% of PPG having no knowledge on cooking preparation methods out of which 94.5% had no knowledge on soaking, 89.6% on use of bicarbonate and 89.9% on methods to increase shelf life of PPs. Overall, 49.4% had little/limited knowledge on harvesting, storage, processing, and cooking preparation practices, with no significant gender difference. All PPG prepared stew using green or dry PPs. A sizeable proportion (45%) of PPG used dry PPs for stew preparation, after traditional hulling. The threshing of peas from pods was carried out manually. Traditional methods in the Lindi Region are laborious and time-consuming; resulting in poorly prepared products thus affecting the appearance of processed PPs. Training farmers on proper postharvest handling and processing can improve food security and market appeal.

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