Alleviating Micronutrient Malnutrition within 1000 Days’ Window Period Using Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) Meat

Abstract

Background and Objective: The study was conducted to evaluate the micronutrients composition of rabbit meat raised in the humid tropics in order to alleviate hidden hunger within the first 2 years of life. Micronutrient malnutrition (MNM) is a global challenge to the health and consequently to the social and economic growth of a nation. MNM is a “hidden hunger” and as such may not be noticed over the years. However, long period effects are associated with a vast impact on the health of vulnerable populations like children under year 2 and women of reproductive age. Unchecked situations have jeopardized the national economy and prosperity of developing countries. Materials and Methods: A total of eighty four (84) samples were analyzed to determine the micronutrient content of 7 meat species (beef, pork, chevon, chicken, rabbit, fish and cattle’s skin). Spectrometer absorbance records with references to the standard curves were used to determine Iron (Fe) and Zinc (Zn) content. The iodine (I) content was determined by titration method while that of Vitamin A and B₁₂ were carried out by colorimeter method with little modification. Results: Present investigation indicated that rabbit meat contained an appreciable amount of micronutrient content (Fe = 3.31±0.48 mg, Zn = 5.92±0.38 mg, I = 11.07±0.15 μg, Vitamin A = 0.05±0.01 lμ and Vitamin B₁₂ = 15.75 μg) making it to be a good source of supplementary diet for women of reproductive age and as an additive to children’s food formulation. Conclusion: Micronutrients analysis of rabbit meat provided an insight into the nutritional composition of such animal food, facilitating its maximal efficacy and utilization in control of malnutrition such as hidden hunger.