title: Fish-enhanced and soybean-enhanced supplemental snacks are acceptable among pregnant women in rural Kenya.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Although animal-source foods provide a rich source of complete protein and a variety of micronutrients, a majority of these foods are not accessible to a large proportion of populations in low-income nations. Locally available and affordable nutrient-dense dietary solutions that are accessible all year round can provide the most viable solution to improving food and nutrition security for these vulnerable populations. However, their potential to improve nutritional status among pregnant women has not been documented.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The study was conducted to help guide the development of fish-enhanced and soybean-enhanced supplemental snacks and evaluate their acceptability among pregnant women in rural Kenya.
  
  
  METHODS
  We developed fish-enhanced and soybean-enhanced snacks using the small local lake fish omena (Rastrineobola argentea) and soybean flour. A cross-sectional study design was used to assess snack acceptance levels among HIV-infected and -noninfected pregnant women, two high-risk groups for nutrient deficiencies.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Overall, 96%, 80%, and 81% of participants, indicated that they liked the taste, odor, texture, and color of wheat, fish-enhanced, or soybean-enhanced snacks, respectively. No significant differences were noted across participants' HIV status. Focus group discussions with the women further supported results from the quantitative ratings.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Our analysis demonstrates the feasibility of developing acceptable, nutrient-dense food supplements using locally available foods in rural Kenya and contributes culturally acceptable, affordable, and sustainable solutions to the problem of undernutrition among pregnant women in low-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
authors: Constance A
authors: CA
authors: Gewa
authors: Cara L
authors: CL
authors: Frankenfeld
authors: Margaret
authors: M
authors: Slavin
authors: Milton
authors: M
authors: Omondi
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D005260:Female; D005396:Fish Products; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D007630:Kenya; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000517:prevention & control; D009753:Nutritive Value; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D012424:Rural Population; D012677:Sensation; D062410:Snacks; D013025:Glycine max