Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children

Audrey Herbert Yépié; Nina Laurette Ahuéfa; Jean-Jacques Diagou; Anin Louise Anin-Atchibri; Odile Sassor Aké-Tano

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16

Research Article |

| Peer-Reviewed

Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children

Audrey Herbert Yépié^*, Nina Laurette Ahuéfa, Jean-Jacques Diagou, Anin Louise Anin-Atchibri, Odile Sassor Aké-Tano

Published in International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences (Volume 14, Issue 1)

Received: 17 January 2025 Accepted: 1 February 2025 Published: 24 February 2025

Views: Downloads:

Download PDF

Share This Article

Twitter
Linked In
Facebook

Abstract

The fight against child malnutrition in Côte d’Ivoire requires solutions that are both appropriate and sustainable. Given the limited use of imported Ready-to-Use Foods, the integration of local ingredients such as cocoa and cashew emerges as a promising alternative. However, the sensory acceptability of these products remains a key challenge to ensure their adoption and effectiveness. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acceptability of two local formulae, based on cashew (CAF) and cocoa (COF), compared to the reference product, Plumpy’Sup^®. To this end, a randomized controlled trial was conducted with 54 mother-child pairs. The study analyzed children’s food consumption and the sensory preferences expressed by mothers, measured on a 1-to-5 scale. The results showed that the majority of the children were girls (57%), either well-nourished (67%) or moderately acutely malnourished (33%). Their mothers primarily practiced mixed breastfeeding (72-83%) and belonged to medium-sized households (4.34 to 5.1 people) with daily expenditures ranging from 2300 to 2600 FCFA per household, or 509.80 to 543.48 FCFA per individual (less than 1 USD per individual). Although Plumpy’Sup® received the highest sensory scores from mothers, children consumed more of the cashew-based formula (CAF), followed by the cocoa-based formula (COF), and then Plumpy’Sup®. These findings underscore the need to develop local, balanced, and accessible nutritional solutions tailored to the socio-economic realities of the country.

Published in	International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences (Volume 14, Issue 1)
DOI	10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16
Page(s)	51-58
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Child Malnutrition, Sensory Acceptability, Ready-to-Use Foods, Cocoa, Cashew

1. Introduction

Child malnutrition remains a major public health issue in Côte d’Ivoire, affecting approximately 30% of children under five as chronic malnutrition, with nearly 6% suffering from severe acute malnutrition

[1]

. While Ready-to-Use Foods (RUFs) have proven effective in addressing moderate acute malnutrition in children

[2, 3]

, their widespread adoption is hindered by economic and logistical challenges, particularly in peri-urban and rural areas.

This highlights the importance of developing accessible and locally adapted solutions. Among local ingredients, cocoa and cashew stand out due to their unique nutritional properties. Cocoa is a rich source of antioxidants, lipids, and minerals such as magnesium and iron, which are essential for children’s growth and development

[4]

. Cashew, on the other hand, is renowned for its high-quality protein content, unsaturated fatty acids, and vitamins

[5]

. These characteristics make these ingredients particularly suitable for formulating RUFs that meet the specific nutritional needs of malnourished children.

However, beyond nutritional aspects, it is crucial to assess the sensory acceptability of these formulations to ensure their adoption by children. Food preferences, influenced by taste, texture, and aroma, play a central role in the success of RUFs, as they determine consistent consumption and nutritional efficacy

[6]

This study aims to explore the level of acceptability and sensory quality of RUFs based on cocoa or cashew, while considering their potential as a sustainable and local alternative in the fight against child malnutrition.

2. Materials and Methods

The methodology used in this study was inspired by the approach described by

[6]

2.1. Study Design

The study consisted of a grouped, randomized, and controlled food acceptability trial, with a reference food serving as the control. It was an open trial, as the three foods being tested were visibly different.

2.2. Foods Compared

The local formulae based on cashew (CAF) and cocoa (COF)

[7]

, were compared to the reference product, Plumpy’Sup^®.

2.3. Study Site and Population

The study was conducted over a two-month period, from September to October 2019, within the Nutrition Department of the National Institute of Public Health (in French Institut National de Santé Publique (INSP)). The study population consisted of mother-child pairs.

2.3.1. Inclusion Criteria

Subjects meeting the following criteria were invited to participate in the study:

Normal or moderately malnourished children (Z-score weight/height > -3) who appeared to be in good health during the three days preceding the tests were eligible. This ensured that the subjects had no appetite loss related to malnutrition or any illness.

1) To facilitate child feeding, mothers responsible for a single child were eligible.

2) Only mothers of children with no medical complications or illnesses were eligible to avoid appetite loss associated with health issues.

3) Only children whose mothers signed or provided their fingerprint on the informed consent document were eligible.

2.3.2. Exclusion Criteria

Subjects with the following characteristics were excluded:

1) Children with known food intolerances.

2) Parents and/or children who were ill during the trial.

2.4. Sample Size

The protocol of this study defines acceptability as the average consumption of at least 50% of the test food served. Thus, the sample size was calculated based on the primary outcome criterion, which is the consumption of more than 50% of the served test food

[8]

. The following equation was used for sample size estimation. It is based on a study design comparing two (2) groups

[9, 10]

N = {(Z_{\propto} + Z_{β})}^{2} \times {(\frac{SD}{δ})}^{2}

(1)

With:

N: Sample size

Z_α: Z-score for a significance level α = 0.05

Z_β: Z-score for a test power β = 90%

SD: Observed variation

δ: Delta or effect to be detected at the end of the study

Based on recent acceptability studies

[10]

, a variation (SD) of 30% was assumed to detect a consumption difference (δ) of 20%. To ensure a precision of 0.05, a power of 0.8, and a probability p < 0.05, the required sample size was 44 children, or 53 children if we assume a 20% dropout rate.

2.5. Randomization

A total of 70 children were identified for randomization. Of these, 54 were selected and assigned to three study groups (Group 1: Plumpy’Sup®, Group 2: COF, Group 3: CAF) using simple random sampling based on computer-generated random numbers (Figure 1).

Download: Download full-size image

Figure 1. Acceptability Trial Flow Diagram.

2.6. Interventions

2.6.1. Baseline Data and Anthropometric Measures

Potential participants (mother-child pairs) were assessed for eligibility at the test site through the collection of baseline data, including demographic, anthropometric, dietary, and morbidity data. Anthropometric measurements included weight, recorded using a scale with 0.1 kg precision, age obtained from vaccination cards, and height, measured using a stadiometer with 0.1 cm precision.

2.6.2. Children's Consumption

Mothers were instructed, if possible, not to feed their children during the hour preceding the test. During the test, the foods were served in brown plastic cups labeled with the child’s code. Each cup contained 15 ± 1 g of the test formulae (COF and CAF) or the reference product (Plumpy’Sup^®). Water was served in white plastic cups. The cups, spoon, tissue, food, and water were weighed using a scale with 0.1 g precision. Mothers were instructed to feed their children for 10 to 15 minutes or until the child refused to eat further

[11]

. Once the child finished eating, the cups containing food or water leftovers, the spoon, and the tissue used to clean the child’s mouth or collect saliva and residues were weighed. The difference between the initial and final weights was recorded as the amount of food or water consumed (in grams).

2.6.3. Mothers' Consumption

After the children completed the acceptability test, mothers were asked to evaluate the three foods. Their responses were recorded on a data collection form by marking a position on facial expression images used to measure preferences, with scores ranging from 1 to 5 (1 = dislike strongly, 2 = dislike slightly, 3 = neutral, 4 = like slightly, 5 = like strongly).

2.6.4. Outcome Measures

The primary outcome measure was to assess children’s acceptability by determining the quantity of food consumed per child for a single type of food offered, based on the group to which they were assigned. In the absence of established guidelines for the acceptability of food supplements, the protocol defined acceptability as the average consumption of at least 50% of the food offered. This is consistent with similar acceptability studies

[11-13]

The secondary outcome was to evaluate parents’ preferences for each food. Parents were instructed to assess the sensory quality of the three test foods. The following sensory attributes were evaluated: color, smell, taste (sweetness), texture (smoothness), and overall appreciation, using a rating scale ranging from 1 (dislike strongly) to 5 (like strongly).

2.7. Statistical Analyses

All data were entered into Excel and analyzed using R software version 3.5.2. Data describing the characteristics of recruited mother-child pairs were recorded as mean ± standard deviation or percentages. Anthropometric indices were calculated using WHO 2006 references and expressed as Z-scores for weight-for-height (W/H), weight-for-age (W/A), and height-for-age (H/A).

For the acceptability test, the percentage (%) of food or water consumed and the mean ± standard deviation of their quantities were calculated. For comparisons among the three groups, a one-way ANOVA was conducted, followed by Bonferroni post hoc tests when significant differences were observed. Data for the hedonic evaluation were presented as mean ± standard deviation.

2.8. Ethical Considerations

This study was approved by the National Institute of Public Health. Informed consent was obtained from mothers, ensuring confidentiality and anonymity. Participants were free to withdraw at any time, guaranteeing voluntary participation.

3. Results

3.1. Characteristics of the Study Population

The study included 54 mothers and their children aged 6 to 59 months. The majority of the children were girls (57%), with an average age ranging from 12.76 ± 2.1 months to 13.1 ± 1.8 months, depending on the groups. The average weight ranged from 7.4 ± 1.2 kg to 7.8 ± 0.7 kg, and the height ranged from 66.9 ± 4.4 cm to 67.5 ± 3.2 cm.

Table 1. Characteristics of Children Participating in the Acceptability Study.

Characteristics		Group 1 (n = 18) Plumpy’Sup®	Group 2 (n = 18) COF	Group 3 (n = 18) CAF
Sex
Girls, % (n)		61 (11)	56 (10)	56 (10)
Boys, % (n)		39 (7)	44 (8)	44 (8)
Anthropometric Measurements
Age, months (M ± SD)		13.1 ± 1.8	12.8 ± 2.3	12.76 ± 2.1
Weight, kg (M ± SD)		7.6 ± 0.6	7.8 ± 0.7	7.4 ± 1.2
Height, cm (M ± SD)		67.2 ± 3.5	67.5 ± 3.2	66.9 ± 4.4
Nutritional Indices
W/H	MAM, Z-score < -2, % (n)	33 (6)	33 (6)	33 (6)
W/H	N, Z-score > -2, % (n)	67 (12)	67 (12)	67 (12)
H/A	MCM, Z-score < -2, % (n)	11 (2)	11 (2)	6 (1)
H/A	N, Z-score > -2, % (n)	89 (16)	89 (16)	94 (17)
W/A	MU, Z-score < -2, % (n)	44 (8)	44 (8)	39 (7)
W/A	N, Z-score > -2, % (n)	56 (10)	56 (10)	61 (11)

Table 2. Characteristics of Mothers and Their Households During the Acceptability Study.

Characteristics	Group 1 (n = 18) Plumpy’Sup®	Group 2 (n = 18) COF	Group 3 (n = 18) CAF
Breastfeeding Until 6 Months
Exclusive breastfeeding, % (n)	17 (3)	22 (4)	11 (2)
Artificial feeding, % (n)	0 (0)	6 (1)	11 (2)
Mixed feeding, % (n)	83 (15)	72 (13)	78 (14)
Complementary Foods
< 6 months, % (n)	56 (10)	44 (8)	39 (7)
> 6 months, % (n)	44 (8)	56 (10)	61 (11)
Household Size (M ± SD)	4.34 ± 1.3	5.1 ± 1.8	4.6 ± 2.0
Daily Household Expenditure in FCFA	2300 ± 256	2600 ± 300	2500 ± 205
Expenditure per Individual in FCFA (USD)	529.95 (0.83)	509.80 (0.80)	543.48 (0.85)

Each group included 33% of children suffering from moderate acute malnutrition. Five cases of stunted growth were recorded (11% in Groups 1 and 2, and 6% in Group 3), and 23 children had moderate weight deficits, distributed across the three groups (Table 1).

Regarding the mothers, mixed breastfeeding was the dominant feeding method (72% to 83% depending on the groups), while exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age was reported for 22% of mothers in Group 2, 17% in Group 1, and 11% in Group 3. The introduction of complementary foods before six months was common (39% to 56% across groups). Families had an average size of 4.34 to 5.1 members, with daily expenditures ranging from 2300 ± 256 FCFA to 2600 ± 300 FCFA, equivalent to approximately 510 to 530 FCFA (0.8 à 0.85 USD) per individual (Table 2).

3.2. Sensory Analyses and Acceptability Test of RUFs

Tables 3 and 4 present the comparative effects of organoleptic evaluations by mother-child pairs on the hedonic and acceptability characteristics of the two local formulae, cocoa-based (COF) and cashew-based (CAF), compared to the reference food (Plumpy’Sup®).

Table 3. Sensory Acceptability Analysis of Tested Foods by Mothers.

Parameters (M ± SD)	Plumpy’Sup® (n = 18) (1)	COF (n = 18) (2)	CAF (n = 18) (3)	p-value¹	p-value²
Parameters (M ± SD)	Plumpy’Sup® (n = 18) (1)	COF (n = 18) (2)	CAF (n = 18) (3)	p-value¹	1 vs 2	2 vs 3	1 vs 3
Color	4.9 ± 0.2	4.8 ± 0.4	4.9 ± 0.3	ns	-	-	-
Aroma/Flavor	4.8 ± 0.4	4.5 ± 0.6	4.8 ± 0.3	0.042	0.041	0.04	ns
Taste (Sweetness)	4.9 ± 0.2	4.0 ± 0.4	4.2 ± 0.1	0.008	0.007	ns	0.005
Texture (Smoothness)	4.8 ± 0.3	4.5 ± 0.6	4.7 ± 0.2	0.015	0.017	ns	0.013
Overall Appreciation	4.9 ± 0.2	4.9 ± 0.2	4.9 ± 0.3	ns	-	-	-

Notes: Each value represents the percentage or mean ± standard deviation (M ± SD) for 18 participants per group. After a univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA), mean comparisons were performed using the Bonferroni test at a 5% threshold.

Table 4. Analysis of Food Consumption and Acceptability of Tested Foods by Children.

Parameters (M ± SD)	Plumpy’Sup® (n = 18) (1)	COF (n = 18) (2)	CAF (n = 18) (3)	p-value¹	p-value²
Parameters (M ± SD)	Plumpy’Sup® (n = 18) (1)	COF (n = 18) (2)	CAF (n = 18) (3)	p-value¹	1 vs 2	2 vs 3	1 vs 3
Quantity of Food Offered (g)	15.1 ± 0.2	14.9 ± 0.4	15.2 ± 0.1	ns	-	-	-
Quantity of Food Consumed (g)	8.9 ± 4	8.8 ± 5	10.9 ± 2	0.017	ns	0.013	0.014
Food Consumed / Food Offered (%)	58.94 ± 20	59.06 ± 12.5	71.71 ± 20	0.018	ns	0.014	0.017
Energy from Food Consumed (kcal)	47.98 ± 21.6	46.13 ± 26.2	58.65 ± 10.8	ns	-	-	-
Quantity of Water Offered (g)	127 ± 2	125 ± 4	126 ± 3	ns	-	-	-
Quantity of Water Consumed (g)	49.3 ± 4	50.4 ± 2	48.9 ± 6	ns	-	-	-
Water Consumed / Water Offered (%)	38.82 ± 2	40.32 ± 0.5	38.81 ± 2	ns	-	-	-
Consumption Duration (min)	8.1 ± 2	7.9 ± 3	9.9 ± 1	0.020	ns	0.016	0.014
Consumption Rate (g/min)	1.10 ± 2	1.11 ± 1.6	1.10 ± 1	ns	-	-	-

Notes: Each value represents the percentage or mean ± standard deviation (M ± SD) for 18 children per group. After a univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA), mean comparisons were performed using the Bonferroni test at a 5% threshold.

The results reveal a significant influence of the three formulae on the mothers' level of appreciation at the 5% threshold. Except for the parameters related to color and overall appreciation, mothers expressed significant differences in their perception of the formulae. Plumpy’Sup® stood out with a more pronounced sweet taste and a smoother texture compared to COF and CAF. Furthermore, the mothers' satisfaction level was significantly higher for Plumpy’Sup® and CAF compared to COF (Table 3).

In terms of acceptability, children consumed significantly more CAF (10.9 ± 2 g) than Plumpy’Sup® (8.9 ± 4 g) and COF (8.8 ± 5 g). This corresponded to average consumption percentages of 71.71 ± 20% for CAF, 58.94 ± 20% for Plumpy’Sup®, and 59.06 ± 12.5% for COF. However, no significant differences were observed regarding the energy provided by the foods consumed or the amount of water consumed.

Regarding the duration of consumption, COF recorded the shortest duration (7.9 ± 3 minutes), followed by Plumpy’Sup® (8.1 ± 2 minutes) and CAF (9.9 ± 1 minute). Nevertheless, no significant differences were observed in the consumption rate (Table 4).

4. Discussion

This study aimed to evaluate the acceptability of food formulas through two approaches: a hedonic evaluation conducted with mothers and a food consumption test performed with children who were either nutritionally normal or moderately malnourished, aged 6 to 59 months.

The characteristics of the study population revealed a predominance of girls, consistent with

[6]

. However, similar studies, such as

[14]

, reported a higher proportion of boys. Regarding anthropometric and nutritional parameters, approximately one-third of the children (18/54) exhibited moderate acute malnutrition. Moreover, the mothers predominantly practiced mixed breastfeeding and early dietary diversification, observed in nearly half the cases (25/54). These inadequate feeding practices may explain the poor nutritional status observed among the children, consistent with findings by

[15, 16]

in Madagascar, and

[17]

in Cameroon, which demonstrated a positive correlation between early diversification and acute malnutrition.

From a socio-economic perspective, the families of the participating mothers had low daily expenditures, ranging from 509.80 FCFA (Group 2) to 543.48 FCFA (Group 3). These amounts are below the poverty line of 737 FCFA per day but above the extreme poverty line set at 335 FCFA per day

[18]

. Globally, these families are in extreme poverty, defined as living on less than $2.15 per day (approximately €64 per month).

In terms of sensory characteristics, mothers rated Plumpy’Sup® and CAF (cashew-based formula) as more acceptable than COF (cocoa-based formula) based on attributes such as color, flavor, sweetness, texture, and overall appreciation. These results align with the conclusions of

[6]

. The superior acceptability of Plumpy’Sup® could be attributed to its texture and sweet taste, enhanced by specific technologies and the use of emulsifiers

[19, 20]

. Furthermore, the high sugar content of this formula, approximately 26 g/100 g, similar to Plumpy’Nut® or Soy RUSF

[21]

, contributes to its pronounced sweetness. Conversely, the local formulas were limited to a sugar content of 10 to 15 g/100 g to avoid habituating children to sugar, thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases in adulthood, as recommended by

[22]

It is important to note that mothers' evaluations may not accurately reflect children's preferences.

[6]

demonstrated that mothers' tastes often differ from those of their children. While the primary criterion of this study was the average proportion of food consumed by children, it was deemed relevant to also assess mothers' preferences using a five-point hedonic scale to compare the overall acceptability for the mother-child pair.

Regarding children's consumption, the results indicate significantly higher acceptability for CAF (71.71 ± 20%) compared to COF (59.06 ± 12.5%) and Plumpy’Sup® (58.94 ± 20%). These findings suggest that children prefer local formulas, with a marked preference for CAF (cashew-based), followed by COF (cocoa-based) and Plumpy’Sup®. Thus, results based on mothers' hedonic evaluations should be interpreted cautiously, as similar studies conducted in Mexico and Ghana

[23]

confirmed that mothers' preferences do not always align with those of their children.

5. Conclusion

In summary, while mothers preferred the sensory qualities of Plumpy’Sup®, children showed better acceptability and higher consumption of the local formulas, particularly the cashew-based formula (CAF). These results highlight the importance of developing local, balanced nutritional solutions tailored to children's needs, while considering socio-economic realities.

Abbreviations

n	Number of Individuals
M	Mean
SD	Standard Deviation
N	Normal
MAM	Moderate Acute Malnutrition
MCM	Moderate Chronic Malnutrition
MU	Moderate Underweight
FCFA	Franc of the French Colonies of Africa
USD	United States Dollar
1 USD	636.5 FCFA
COF	Cocoa-based Local Formula
CAF	Cashew-based Local Formula
ns	Not Significant
¹	ANOVA
²	Post-hoc

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to express their deep gratitude to all individuals and institutions who contributed to the realization of this study. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the mothers and children who participated for their valuable collaboration.

We also offer our sincere thanks to the staff of the Nutrition Department of the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) for their technical assistance and availability throughout the study. Special thanks go to the field teams for their dedication and professionalism in data collection.

Finally, we thank our partners and institutional supporters who contributed to this research, as well as the laboratories that provided the equipment and ingredients necessary for the formulation of the tested foods.

Your support was essential to the success of this study.

Author Contributions

Audrey Herbert Yépié: Conceptualization, Methodology, Supervision, Validation, Writing – original draft, Resources

Nina Laurette Ahuéfa: Data curation, Investigation, Writing – review and editing

Jean-Jacques Diagou: Data curation, Investigation, Writing – review and editing

Anin Louise Anin-Atchibri: Project administration, Methodology, Supervision, Validation

Odile Sassor Aké-Tano: Methodology, Supervision, Validation

All authors contributed significantly to the preparation of this article, read, and approved the final version of the manuscript

Funding

This work is not supported by any external funding.

Data Availability Statement

The data are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

References

[1]	UNICEF. La nutrition, pour chaque enfant: Stratégie de l’UNICEF pour la nutrition 2020–2030. 2021. https://www.unicef.org/media/108931/file/NutritionStrategy2020-2030Brief-French.pdf
[2]	Brixi, G. Innovative optimization of ready-to-use food for treatment of acute malnutrition. Maternal & Child Nutrition. 2018, e12599, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1111/mcn.12599
[3]	Cichon, B., Fabiansen, C., Iuel-Brockdorf, A.-S., Yaméogo, C. W., Ritz, C., Christensen, V. B., Friis, H. Impact of food supplements on hemoglobin, iron status, and inflammation in children with moderate acute malnutrition: a 2 × 2 × 3 factorial randomized trial in Burkina Faso. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2018, 107, 278-286.
[4]	Karim, K. J. C., Saki, S. J., Yoboue, G. A. K. L., Sea, T. B., Kouame, P. L. Potentialités physicochimiques des fèves de cacao des variétés "Mercedes" et "Théobroma cacao" des régions du Lôh-Djiboua et de l’Indénié-Djuablin (Côte d’Ivoire). International Journal of Advanced Research. 2020. 8(05), 1178-1186. http://dx.doi.org/10.21474/IJAR01/11031
[5]	Koffi, Y. S. Étude de l’impact des pratiques culturales sur la qualité des noix de cajou (Anacardium occidentale L.) et agrotoxicologie des intrants chimiques dans trois zones de production en Côte d’Ivoire. Thèse de Doctorat. Université Nangui Abrogoua, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. 2021, 288p.
[6]	Ahmed, T., Choudhury, N., Hossain, M. I., Tangsuphoom, N., Islam, M. M., de Pee, S., Christian, P. Development and acceptability testing of ready-to-use supplementary food made from locally available food ingredients in Bangladesh. BMC Pediatrics. 2014, 14(164), 1-8.
[7]	Yepié, A. H., Cissé, I., Ahuéfa, N. L., Anin-Atchibri, A. L., Aké-Tano, O. S.. Nutritive and Antinutritive Values of Ready-To-Use Foods based on Local Ingredients for the Recovery of Moderate Acute Malnourished Children in Côte d'Ivoire. Global Journal of Medical Research: L Nutrition & Food Science. 2021, 21(1), 57-66.
[8]	Borg, B., Mihrshahi, S., Griffin, M., Sok, D., Chamnan, C., Laillou, A., Wieringa, F. T. Acceptability of a locally-produced multiple micronutrient-fortified Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food (RUSF) for children under two years in Cambodia: a Cluster Randomized Trial. Maternal & Child Nutrition. 2019, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.1111/mcn.12780
[9]	Suresh, K. P., Chandrashekara, S. Simple size estimation and power analysis for clinical research studies. Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences. 2012, 5(1), 7-13.
[10]	Tekele, A., Tessema, M., Hailu, T., Samuel, A., Assefa, T., Moges, T., Tesfaye, B. Sensory Evaluation acceptability for a food supplementary chickpea-based Ready-to-Use among moderately malnourished children aged 6-59 months. Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology. 2015, 5, 216-230. https://doi.org/10.17265/2161-6264/2015.03.008
[11]	Borg, B., Mihrshahi, S., Griffin, M., Chamnan, C., Laillou, A., Wieringa, F. T. Crossover trial to test the acceptability of a locally produced lipid-based nutrient supplement (LNS) for children under 2 years in Cambodia: a study protocol. BMJ Open. 2017, 7(9). https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2017-015958
[12]	Adu-Afarwuah, S., Lartey, A., Zeilani, M., Dewey, K. G. Acceptability of lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS) among Ghanaian infants and pregnant or lactating women. Maternal & Child Nutrition. 2011, 7(4), 344-356. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.17408709.2010.00286.x
[13]	Nga, T. T., Nguyen, M., Mathisen, R. Acceptability and impact on anthropometry of a locally developed ready-to-use therapeutic food in pre-school children in Vietnam. Nutrition Journal. 2013, 12, 120.
[14]	Singh, S., Roos, N., Sok, D., Borg, B., Chamnan, C., Laillou, A., Wieringa, F. T. Development and Acceptability of Locally Made Fish-Based, Ready-to-Use Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Malnutrition in Cambodia. Food & Nutrition Bulletin. 2018, 39(1), 1-15.
[15]	Razafimamonjy, H. N. Impact du sevrage précoce sur le statut nutritionnel des enfants de 0 à 59 mois dans la commune de Sabotsynamehana. Mémoire de licence en nutrition, Institut National de Santé Publique et Communautaire, Madagascar. 2006, 94p.
[16]	Tsilefinirina, A. J. B. Sevrage précoce sur le statut nutritionnel des enfants de 0 à 24 mois à Fianarantsoa I. Mémoire de licence en nutrition, Institut National de Santé Publique et Communautaire, Madagascar. 2007, 94p.
[17]	Ngo, U-S. S., Mbassi, A. H., Hott, O., Tchendjou, P., Womga, A., Tanya, A. Pratique de la diversification alimentaire chez les enfants de 6 à 24 mois à Yaoundé: relation avec leur état nutritionnel. Archives de Pédiatrie. 2014, 21(1), 27-33.
[18]	INS. Enquête sur le Niveau de Vie des Ménages en Côte d’Ivoire (ENV 2015), rapport définitif. 2015, 91p. www.ins.ci/n/templates/docss/env2015.pdf
[19]	Santini, A., Novellino, E., Armini, V., Ritieni, A. State of the art of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food: A tool for nutraceuticals addition to foodstuff. Food Chemistry. 2013, 140, 843–849.
[20]	Shakerardekani, A., Karim, R., Ghazali, H. M., Chin, N. L. Textural, Rheological and Sensory Properties and Oxidative Stability of Nut Spreads-A Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2013, 14, 4223-4241. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms14024223
[21]	Stobaugh H. Maximizing Recovery and Growth When Treating Moderate Acute Malnutrition with Whey-Containing Supplements. Food & Nutrition Bulletin. 2018, 39(S2): S30-S34. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572118774492
[22]	Briend, A. La malnutrition de l’enfant: Des bases physiopathologiques à la prise en charge sur le terrain. Institut Danone. 1998, 184p. http://www.danone-institute.com
[23]	Young, S. L., Blanco, I., Hernandez-Cordero, S., Pelto, G. H., Neufeld, L. M. Organoleptic properties, ease of use, and perceived health effects are determinants of acceptability of micronutrient supplements among poor Mexican women. Journal of Nutrition. 2010, 140(3), 605-611. http://dx.doi.org/10.3945/jn.109.113498

Cite This Article

Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Yépié, A. H., Ahuéfa, N. L., Diagou, J., Anin-Atchibri, A. L., Aké-Tano, O. S. (2025). Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children. International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences, 14(1), 51-58. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16

Copy | Download

ACS Style

Yépié, A. H.; Ahuéfa, N. L.; Diagou, J.; Anin-Atchibri, A. L.; Aké-Tano, O. S. Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children. Int. J. Nutr. Food Sci. 2025, 14(1), 51-58. doi: 10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16

Copy | Download

AMA Style

Yépié AH, Ahuéfa NL, Diagou J, Anin-Atchibri AL, Aké-Tano OS. Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children. Int J Nutr Food Sci. 2025;14(1):51-58. doi: 10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16,
  author = {Audrey Herbert Yépié and Nina Laurette Ahuéfa and Jean-Jacques Diagou and Anin Louise Anin-Atchibri and Odile Sassor Aké-Tano},
  title = {Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children
},
  journal = {International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences},
  volume = {14},
  number = {1},
  pages = {51-58},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijnfs.20251401.16},
  abstract = {The fight against child malnutrition in Côte d’Ivoire requires solutions that are both appropriate and sustainable. Given the limited use of imported Ready-to-Use Foods, the integration of local ingredients such as cocoa and cashew emerges as a promising alternative. However, the sensory acceptability of these products remains a key challenge to ensure their adoption and effectiveness. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acceptability of two local formulae, based on cashew (CAF) and cocoa (COF), compared to the reference product, Plumpy’Sup®. To this end, a randomized controlled trial was conducted with 54 mother-child pairs. The study analyzed children’s food consumption and the sensory preferences expressed by mothers, measured on a 1-to-5 scale. The results showed that the majority of the children were girls (57%), either well-nourished (67%) or moderately acutely malnourished (33%). Their mothers primarily practiced mixed breastfeeding (72-83%) and belonged to medium-sized households (4.34 to 5.1 people) with daily expenditures ranging from 2300 to 2600 FCFA per household, or 509.80 to 543.48 FCFA per individual (less than 1 USD per individual). Although Plumpy’Sup® received the highest sensory scores from mothers, children consumed more of the cashew-based formula (CAF), followed by the cocoa-based formula (COF), and then Plumpy’Sup®. These findings underscore the need to develop local, balanced, and accessible nutritional solutions tailored to the socio-economic realities of the country.
},
 year = {2025}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children

AU  - Audrey Herbert Yépié
AU  - Nina Laurette Ahuéfa
AU  - Jean-Jacques Diagou
AU  - Anin Louise Anin-Atchibri
AU  - Odile Sassor Aké-Tano
Y1  - 2025/02/24
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16
DO  - 10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16
T2  - International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences
JF  - International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences
JO  - International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences
SP  - 51
EP  - 58
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2327-2716
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16
AB  - The fight against child malnutrition in Côte d’Ivoire requires solutions that are both appropriate and sustainable. Given the limited use of imported Ready-to-Use Foods, the integration of local ingredients such as cocoa and cashew emerges as a promising alternative. However, the sensory acceptability of these products remains a key challenge to ensure their adoption and effectiveness. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acceptability of two local formulae, based on cashew (CAF) and cocoa (COF), compared to the reference product, Plumpy’Sup®. To this end, a randomized controlled trial was conducted with 54 mother-child pairs. The study analyzed children’s food consumption and the sensory preferences expressed by mothers, measured on a 1-to-5 scale. The results showed that the majority of the children were girls (57%), either well-nourished (67%) or moderately acutely malnourished (33%). Their mothers primarily practiced mixed breastfeeding (72-83%) and belonged to medium-sized households (4.34 to 5.1 people) with daily expenditures ranging from 2300 to 2600 FCFA per household, or 509.80 to 543.48 FCFA per individual (less than 1 USD per individual). Although Plumpy’Sup® received the highest sensory scores from mothers, children consumed more of the cashew-based formula (CAF), followed by the cocoa-based formula (COF), and then Plumpy’Sup®. These findings underscore the need to develop local, balanced, and accessible nutritional solutions tailored to the socio-economic realities of the country.

VL  - 14
IS  - 1
ER  -

Copy | Download

Author Information

Audrey Herbert Yépié

Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, University of Nangui Abrogoua, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Contact Email
Nina Laurette Ahuéfa

Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, University of Nangui Abrogoua, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Jean-Jacques Diagou

Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, University of Nangui Abrogoua, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Anin Louise Anin-Atchibri

Department of Food Sciences and Technology, Laboratory of Nutrition and Food Safety, University of Nangui Abrogoua, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Odile Sassor Aké-Tano

Department of Nutrition, National Institute of Public Health, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Download PDF

Figure 1

Figure 1. Acceptability Trial Flow Diagram.

Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Yépié, A. H., Ahuéfa, N. L., Diagou, J., Anin-Atchibri, A. L., Aké-Tano, O. S. (2025). Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children. International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences, 14(1), 51-58. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16

Copy | Download

ACS Style

Yépié, A. H.; Ahuéfa, N. L.; Diagou, J.; Anin-Atchibri, A. L.; Aké-Tano, O. S. Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children. Int. J. Nutr. Food Sci. 2025, 14(1), 51-58. doi: 10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16

Copy | Download

AMA Style

Yépié AH, Ahuéfa NL, Diagou J, Anin-Atchibri AL, Aké-Tano OS. Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children. Int J Nutr Food Sci. 2025;14(1):51-58. doi: 10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16,
  author = {Audrey Herbert Yépié and Nina Laurette Ahuéfa and Jean-Jacques Diagou and Anin Louise Anin-Atchibri and Odile Sassor Aké-Tano},
  title = {Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children
},
  journal = {International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences},
  volume = {14},
  number = {1},
  pages = {51-58},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijnfs.20251401.16},
  abstract = {The fight against child malnutrition in Côte d’Ivoire requires solutions that are both appropriate and sustainable. Given the limited use of imported Ready-to-Use Foods, the integration of local ingredients such as cocoa and cashew emerges as a promising alternative. However, the sensory acceptability of these products remains a key challenge to ensure their adoption and effectiveness. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acceptability of two local formulae, based on cashew (CAF) and cocoa (COF), compared to the reference product, Plumpy’Sup®. To this end, a randomized controlled trial was conducted with 54 mother-child pairs. The study analyzed children’s food consumption and the sensory preferences expressed by mothers, measured on a 1-to-5 scale. The results showed that the majority of the children were girls (57%), either well-nourished (67%) or moderately acutely malnourished (33%). Their mothers primarily practiced mixed breastfeeding (72-83%) and belonged to medium-sized households (4.34 to 5.1 people) with daily expenditures ranging from 2300 to 2600 FCFA per household, or 509.80 to 543.48 FCFA per individual (less than 1 USD per individual). Although Plumpy’Sup® received the highest sensory scores from mothers, children consumed more of the cashew-based formula (CAF), followed by the cocoa-based formula (COF), and then Plumpy’Sup®. These findings underscore the need to develop local, balanced, and accessible nutritional solutions tailored to the socio-economic realities of the country.
},
 year = {2025}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Evaluation of Acceptability and Sensory Quality of Cocoa- or Cashew-Based Ready-to-Use Foods for Moderately Acutely Malnourished Children

AU  - Audrey Herbert Yépié
AU  - Nina Laurette Ahuéfa
AU  - Jean-Jacques Diagou
AU  - Anin Louise Anin-Atchibri
AU  - Odile Sassor Aké-Tano
Y1  - 2025/02/24
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16
DO  - 10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16
T2  - International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences
JF  - International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences
JO  - International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences
SP  - 51
EP  - 58
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2327-2716
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20251401.16
AB  - The fight against child malnutrition in Côte d’Ivoire requires solutions that are both appropriate and sustainable. Given the limited use of imported Ready-to-Use Foods, the integration of local ingredients such as cocoa and cashew emerges as a promising alternative. However, the sensory acceptability of these products remains a key challenge to ensure their adoption and effectiveness. The objective of this study was to evaluate the acceptability of two local formulae, based on cashew (CAF) and cocoa (COF), compared to the reference product, Plumpy’Sup®. To this end, a randomized controlled trial was conducted with 54 mother-child pairs. The study analyzed children’s food consumption and the sensory preferences expressed by mothers, measured on a 1-to-5 scale. The results showed that the majority of the children were girls (57%), either well-nourished (67%) or moderately acutely malnourished (33%). Their mothers primarily practiced mixed breastfeeding (72-83%) and belonged to medium-sized households (4.34 to 5.1 people) with daily expenditures ranging from 2300 to 2600 FCFA per household, or 509.80 to 543.48 FCFA per individual (less than 1 USD per individual). Although Plumpy’Sup® received the highest sensory scores from mothers, children consumed more of the cashew-based formula (CAF), followed by the cocoa-based formula (COF), and then Plumpy’Sup®. These findings underscore the need to develop local, balanced, and accessible nutritional solutions tailored to the socio-economic realities of the country.

VL  - 14
IS  - 1
ER  -

Copy | Download