UGALI WITH A TWIST OF CHIA SEEDS.




The Integrated CHIA and oyster Mushroom system for Sustainable food value chain in Africa (CHIAM), a research project dedicated to developing sustainable and innovative solutions for the global food system, introduces a revolutionary, innovative and nutritional intervention to ugali to boost and enhance its nutritional value and combat malnutrition, particularly among vulnerable populations.

 

Key drivers for this innovation:

Collaborating with food scientists and nutritionists to create palatable and culturally acceptable fortified ugali recipes.

Providing training and technical assistance to local food processors on the production and distribution of fortified ugali.

Conducting public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the nutritional benefits of fortified ugali and encourage its adoption.

 

This ground-breaking initiative to fortify ugali, a staple food in many African countries, with chia seeds will significantly address critical challenges facing food and nutrition including:

  • Malnutrition: a nutritional condition caused by a deficiency or excess of energy, proteins, or micronutrients, which can adversely affect the form and function of tissues and the body, sometimes leading to clinical outcomes.
  •  Undernutrition: which consists of protein energy malnutrition (PEM) and micro-nutrient deficiency (MND). Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a condition where a person doesn't get enough protein and calories from their food which can lead to health problems like stunted growth, weakened immunity, and even death.
  • Deprived livelihoods. This is as a result of individuals and communities lacking resources to meet the basic needs that are needed to achieve a decent standard of living.

 

Chia Nutrition Powerhouse - Chia seeds (Salvia Hispanica) are small, oval grey seeds with black and white stripes, native to Central and South America. Chia seeds are becoming increasingly popular in Africa due to their health benefits. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein, and antioxidants. By incorporating chia into ugali, the initiative seeks to:

  • Improve overall nutritional quality: Increase the intake of essential nutrients, including protein, Fibre, and healthy fats, crucial for growth and development.
  • Combat micronutrient deficiencies: Address deficiencies in iron, calcium, and other essential minerals often prevalent in regions where ugali is a primary food source.
  • Enhance cognitive function: Improve brain development and function, particularly in children, due to the high omega-3 content of chia seeds.
  • Promote gut health: Increase fibre intake, aiding digestion and supporting a healthy gut microbiome.



source: https://www.poshtik.in/products/chia-seeds


Understanding Maize Flour - Maize flour (Zea mays) remains a primary staple food in Kenya, consumed widely in forms such as porridges and ugali (a stiff porridge). White maize, commonly used in Kenya, is relatively low in protein and essential minerals like zinc, potassium, calcium, and B-complex vitamins. Despite this, ugali is a dietary mainstay for approximately 70% of the Kenyan population, primarily as a staple food. Ugali, a staple food in many parts of Africa, is often consumed with inexpensive green leafy vegetables due to the high cost of protein-rich side dishes. This reliance on plant-based protein sources can increase the risk of Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM).[1]

 


Source: https://food.bolt.eu/en-US/320-nairobi/p/60895-swahili-spot

[1] https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/4/543


Fortification 

Fortifying maize flour with chia seeds presents a promising solution to address this nutritional deficiency. The Kenyan government has mandated that all maize millers fortify their products. However, current adoption rates are low, and farmers mill their maize from local millers without any fortification.

Conclusion - Integrated CHIA and oyster Mushroom system for Sustainable food value chain in Africa (CHIAM) believes that this initiative has the potential to significantly improve the nutritional status of millions of people across Africa. By leveraging the nutritional power of chia seeds, we can help create a healthier future for generations to come.

 

Detailed information on the study is available from the links below.

 


Zettel, V., Mburu, M., Njoroge, D. ,Chemutai, S., (February,2024).Effects of Ugali Maize Flour Fortification with Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) on Its Physio-Chemical Properties and Consumer Acceptability.


https://www.faccejpi.net/en/foscera/projects/chiam.htm

[1] https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/4/543           









This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 862555.




 



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