Authors: Dr Anjali Verma, Dr. P.K. Mishra
Abstract: Background: Complementary feeding between 6 and 24 months is a critical window for growth and development. Ragi (finger millet) is a locally available millet rich in calcium, iron, dietary fiber and certain amino acids, and is a suitable base for nutritious complementary foods in rural India. This study aimed to develop a ragi-based homemade complementary feed (RBCF) optimized for nutrient density, acceptability and ease of preparation by caregivers. Methods: A recipe development and evaluation study was conducted. Three formulations of ragi-based complementary feed were prepared by varying the proportion of ragi flour, roasted soybean powder, skimmed milk powder (SMP), and vegetable/fruit puree. Proximate composition (moisture, protein, fat, ash, crude fiber, carbohydrate), energy density, micronutrients (iron, calcium), and antinutritional factor-phytate-were analyzed using standard AOAC methods. Sensory acceptability by mothers and a trained panel (n=30) used a 9-point hedonic scale. In a pilot acceptability trial (n=30 infants, 6–12 months), caregivers prepared RBCF at home for two weeks; feeding frequency, preparation issues and infant acceptance were recorded. Results: The optimized formulation (T2: 60% ragi flour, 20% roasted soybean, 10% SMP, 10% boiled mashed banana/vegetable) provided energy density of 82 kcal/100 g dry mix (when reconstituted 1:4 with water), protein 9.8 g/100 g dry mix, fat 7.2 g/100 g, calcium 220 mg/100 g, and iron 4.6 mg/100 g. Phytate content decreased by 35% after overnight fermentation/soaking and roasting of ragi. Sensory scores for overall acceptability averaged 7.6/9 (panel) and caregivers reported >85% acceptance among infants. Caregivers found preparation easy and ingredients locally available. No adverse events reported during the 2 week pilot. Conclusion: The developed ragi-based complementary feed is nutrient-dense, culturally acceptable and feasible for home preparation. Incorporating simple processing (soaking/roasting, addition of soybean and milk powder) improved protein and micronutrient profile while reducing phytate. Larger efficacy trials evaluating growth and micronutrient status are recommended.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18095522
