Yellow mealworm-enriched school meals: Effects on growth, body composition and micronutrient status of children in Uganda

PhD defence by Tele Chepkoros Boit

Assessment Committee

Professor Christian Mølgaard, NEXS, University of Copenhagen (Chairperson)
Professor Tor Arne Strand, University of Bergen
Professor Tsinuel Girma Nigatu, Jimma University

Supervisor

Associate Professor Nanna Roos

Co-supervisor

Associate Professor Benedikte Grenov

Department

Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports

Place

Room: A1.05.01, Dyrelægevej 100, Frederiksberg.

Email address to gain access to the thesis: teleboit.work@gmail.com.
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Short description of the thesis

Balanced diets are essential for children’s growth, cognitive and physical development. However, many children living in low-resource settings have limited access to foods rich in high-quality protein, vitamins and minerals.

This PhD thesis explores the potential of edible insects, specifically yellow mealworms, as a nutrient-dense food source to improve the growth, body composition and micronutrient status of school children aged 6–9 years in Uganda.

Taken together, the studies found that yellow mealworm consumption promotes children’s linear growth and favorable changes in body composition. However, yellow mealworms may not provide sufficient iron and vitamin A for children with adequate micronutrient levels.

These findings highlight the potential of yellow mealworms as a sustainable protein source for school-aged children.