Nutritive value of non-mulberry and mulberry silkworm pupae and consumption pattern in Assam, India

Traditionally consumed unconventional food items in Assam, India, namely the pupae of non-mulberry silkworms ‘Eri' (Attacus ricinii), ‘Muga' (Antherae assama) and mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori) were analyzed for their proximate compositions and consumption pattern. Overall consumption was highest for Attacus ricinii pupae (Eri 87.7%) followed by Antherae assama (Muga 57.4%) and Bombyx mori (mulberry silkworm 24.6%) irrespective of age group and gender. Amongst the three major communities predominant in the villages, the highest consumption was in the Ahom community (Eri 91% and Muga 63%). The proximate compositions (%) for non-mulberry and mulberry silkworm pupae were in the range of: total protein (12 to 16%), total fat (11 to 20%), carbohydrate (1.2 to 1.8%), moisture (65 to 70%) and ash (0.8 to 1.4%). The energy contents of the silkworm pupae were in the range of 706 to 988 kJ. Proximate composition suggested that these unconventional food items (pupae) could be a good source of protein and fat. In conclusion these unconventional food items with high cultural acceptability and nutritive value may be utilized in formulating potential alternate recipe for malnourished population as well as nutritious delicacy for others.