Formulation and Nutritional Evaluation of Complimentary Weaning Food Using Sorghum, Millet, Soybeans and Date Fruits

ABSTRACT
This study assessed the nutritional, functional, and sensory properties of a complementary weaning food formulated from sorghum, millet, soybeans, and date fruit. The goal was to develop a cost-effective and nutritionally balanced product for infants aged 6–24 months using locally available ingredients. Five samples were produced, including a control (100% commercial maize-based formula) and four blends varying in composition of sorghum (30–50%), millet (10–30%), soybeans (20–30%), and date fruit (10–20%). Analyses included proximate composition, mineral and vitamin content, functional properties, and sensory evaluation. Functional tests revealed water absorption capacity ranged from 180.2 to 242.5 g/g, bulk density from 0.65 to 0.83 g/cm³, and swelling index between 6.2 and 8.7 mL/g. Nutritional results showed improved protein content in soybean-rich blends (15.2–18.6%), enhanced fiber levels (3.8–5.4%), and increased mineral presence, calcium (142–278 mg/100g), iron (5.2–11.4 mg/100g), and potassium (465–710 mg/100g). Vitamin analysis indicated elevated levels of Vitamin A (0.94–1.87 µg RE/g) and Vitamin C (6.2–13.5 mg/100g) in date-enriched samples. Sensory evaluation was conducted with 15 semi-trained panelists using a 9-point hedonic scale. Attributes such as taste, aroma, appearance, texture, and overall acceptability received mean scores between 6.8 and 8.4, indicating favorable acceptance. The pilot study showed Cronbach’s alpha reliability of 0.877, confirming the internal consistency of sensory evaluation data. In conclusion, the composite blends, particularly those with higher soybean and date content, provided superior nutritional and functional qualities without compromising sensory appeal. The study supports the formulation of nutritious, culturally acceptable weaning foods from affordable indigenous resources, contributing to efforts against protein-energy malnutrition in Nigerian infants.