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Research Article
The Potential Applications of Shrimp Wastes: Developing Value-added Products to Enhance Their Nutritional Profiles and Flavour
Joba Sarkar,
Selina Sultana*
,
Md Mazharul Islam,
Sarker Mohammad Rashadul Islam
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
143-158
Received:
20 May 2026
Accepted:
4 June 2026
Published:
3 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijnfs.20261504.11
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Abstract: This study investigates the development of value-added food products from shrimp (Metapenaeus monoceros) waste (SW) with the aim of enhancing nutritional value, sensory quality, and sustainability. Shrimp waste was sun-dried and ground into shrimp waste powder (SWP), which was incorporated into four products: chips, soup powder, samosa wrapper, and wonton wrapper. Chips were prepared by combining sago powder and SWP with water, followed by cooking, drying, and frying. Soup powder was produced by mixing SWP with flour and selected ingredients, while samosa and wonton wrappers were prepared using SWP, flour, water, and salt. Proximate composition was determined using standard analytical methods: protein by the Dumas method, fat by rapid fat extraction, moisture by a Shimadzu moisture analyzer, ash by muffle furnace, and carbohydrate by difference. On a dry basis, SWP chips contained 8.75% protein, 0.50% fat, 67.75% carbohydrate, 10.18% moisture, and 12.85% ash. SWP soup powder showed higher protein content (19.50%) with 0.67% fat, 66.22% carbohydrate, 8.84% moisture, and 4.77% ash. Both SWP samosa and wonton wrappers contained 14.84% protein, 0.90% fat, 57.49% carbohydrate, 10.45% moisture, and 16.32% ash. Sensory assessment by 70 panelists indicated excellent acceptability, highlighting superior crunchiness and flavor in chips, desirable flavor in soup, and high-quality attributes in samosa and wonton wrappers. Microbial analysis revealed safe microbial loads, with shelf lives of approximately six months for chips, four months for soup powder at ambient conditions, and 45 days for wrappers at −40°C. Production costs were lower than commercially available alternatives. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of shrimp waste valorization for sustainable food innovation and improved waste management.
Abstract: This study investigates the development of value-added food products from shrimp (Metapenaeus monoceros) waste (SW) with the aim of enhancing nutritional value, sensory quality, and sustainability. Shrimp waste was sun-dried and ground into shrimp waste powder (SWP), which was incorporated into four products: chips, soup powder, samosa wrapper, and...
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Research Article
Effect of Counselling on Expressing Breastmilk, on the Duration of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Working Mothers in Kiambu County, Kenya
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
159-170
Received:
16 June 2026
Accepted:
30 June 2026
Published:
22 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijnfs.20261504.12
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Abstract: The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) stands at 41% globally, 43% in Africa, 61% in Kenya. The World Health Organization recommends EBF for six months. About half (49.2%) of Kenyan women are in the work force. These women are entitled to a three-month maternity leave under the Kenyan Constitution. They therefore do not have the privilege of being with their children all day to breastfeed and may require additional support to be able to breastfeed exclusively for 6 months. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect that counselling on expressed breast milk has on the duration of EBF among working mothers in Kiambu County. A cluster-based randomized controlled trial was adopted. The mothers in the intervention group received counselling on the benefits of EBF, breastmilk expression methods, benefits of expressing, storage, and feeding of expressed breastmilk. A researcher administered semi-structured questionnaire was administered to collect baseline data on socio-demographic factors among working mothers. Follow-up questionnaires were administered to both groups to collect information on breastfeeding practices. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Chi-square tests, odds ratios, and regression analyses were used to determine associations between variables. The prevalence of EBF was 70.4%. Significantly, the prevalence of EBF in the intervention group (86.1%) was higher than in the control group (54.9%). Mothers who received counselling (intervention) were five times more likely to practice EBF than mothers who did not receive counselling ([OR]: 5.105; CI 2.570-10.137; p<0.001). This contributed to the higher rates in EBF in the intervention group. This study established that counselling of working mothers on the use of expressed breastmilk could result in increased rates of EBF in Kiambu County. Therefore, working mothers need to be educated on optimal breastfeeding practices so that the rates of exclusive breastfeeding can improve.
Abstract: The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) stands at 41% globally, 43% in Africa, 61% in Kenya. The World Health Organization recommends EBF for six months. About half (49.2%) of Kenyan women are in the work force. These women are entitled to a three-month maternity leave under the Kenyan Constitution. They therefore do not have the privilege ...
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Review Article
The Science of Synbiotic GOS and L. Reuteri in Digestive Comfort, Reducing Colic-Related Symptoms, Regurgitation, and Advancing Muscle and Bone Development
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
171-177
Received:
18 May 2026
Accepted:
1 June 2026
Published:
27 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijnfs.20261504.13
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Abstract: Synbiotic nutrition, which combines prebiotics and probiotics, has gained increasing attention for its potential role in supporting digestive comfort, gut health, and healthy development during infancy and early childhood. The gastrointestinal tract of infants is still developing, and the establishment of a balanced intestinal microbiota is an important part of this process. During this period, digestive symptoms such as colic, excessive crying, fussiness, gas-related discomfort, irregular stool patterns, and regurgitation are common concerns for parents and caregivers. Nutritional strategies that support a healthy gut environment may therefore provide meaningful benefits. Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are well-recognized prebiotics that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial intestinal bacteria, particularly bifidobacteria. By promoting a microbiota composition associated with a healthier intestinal environment, GOS may contribute to improved stool consistency, regularity, and overall digestive tolerance. A bifidobacteria-rich microbiota may also support the maturation of intestinal function and help maintain an appropriate balance between beneficial and potentially harmful microorganisms. Limos lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic species that has been widely studied in relation to gastrointestinal health. It may support gut microbial balance, intestinal barrier function, and digestive comfort. Evidence suggests that L. reuteri may help improve gastrointestinal motility and reduce symptoms associated with infant colic, including excessive crying and fussiness. It may also play a role in reducing gas-related discomfort and regurgitation by supporting a more stable intestinal environment and better digestive function. When combined, GOS and L. reuteri may provide complementary or synergistic benefits. GOS can create a favorable environment for beneficial bacteria, while L. reuteri may contribute directly to microbial balance and gastrointestinal function. Together, they may support stool regularity, reduce digestive discomfort, and improve tolerance during early childhood. This combined approach may be particularly relevant during periods when the digestive system is still immature. Beyond digestive comfort, improved gut health may support nutrient digestion and absorption. Better utilization of protein, calcium, and other minerals is important for muscle strength, bone development, and physical growth. Adequate nutrient absorption during infancy and early childhood contributes to healthy musculoskeletal development and overall well-being. This review discusses the scientific basis for the combined use of GOS and L. reuteri in early childhood nutrition, with emphasis on digestive comfort, colic-related symptoms, regurgitation, nutrient utilization, and musculoskeletal development.
Abstract: Synbiotic nutrition, which combines prebiotics and probiotics, has gained increasing attention for its potential role in supporting digestive comfort, gut health, and healthy development during infancy and early childhood. The gastrointestinal tract of infants is still developing, and the establishment of a balanced intestinal microbiota is an impo...
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