Antioxidant Properties of Indigenous-Based Small-Quantity Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplements for the Management of Moderate Acute Malnutrition in Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Malnutrition remains a significant public health challenge in Northern Nigeria, particularly among children under five years of age. This study formulated small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS) 
using locally available indigenous ingredients and evaluated their antioxidant properties for potential use in managing moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) in Katsina State, Nigeria. SQ-LNS blends were developed from millet, groundnut, soybean, baobab pulp, and red palm oil. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and total phenolic content (TPC). The antioxidant properties of the formulations were compared with 100% pearl millet flour and a standard UNICEF therapeutic food. Total phenolic content ranged from 150.2 to 180.6 mg GAE/100 g among the formulated samples. DPPH inhibition reached up to 72.1%, while FRAP values ranged from 320.5 to 350.8 µmol Fe²⁺/g. The UNICEF therapeutic food exhibited slightly higher antioxidant values, whereas pearl millet flour showed the lowest activity. These findings indicate that locally formulated SQ-LNS possess significant antioxidant potential capable of reducing oxidative stress and supporting nutritional recovery. The use of affordable and culturally acceptable ingredients enhances feasibility, sustainability, and scalability in community-based interventions for MAM.