Evaluation of soybean stinkbug (Riptortus pedestris) powder, as a food ingredient and its nutritional composition

Riptortus pedestris is a potential edible insect, and its powder can be considered as an ideal nutrient source. This study sought to determine the nutritive quality of the powder from Riptortus pedestris. The protein and crude fat content of dried R. pedestris powder were 77.61 g 100 g(-1) and 18.01 g 100 g(-1), respectively. It contained 18 amino acids and 6 fatty acids comparable to eggs and soybean. The total essential amino acid contents could meet the requirement of preschool children and adults. The unsaturated fatty acid content in R. pedestris powder was comparatively more than saturated fatty acid content. Essential unsaturated fatty acids content, especially linoleic acid, was quite high than egg or some other edible stinkbugs. Additionally, R. pedestris powder was rich in various mineral substances, and the macro-element and micro-element contents were more balanced than other edible stinkbugs. These results suggest that R. pedestris powder could be a highly nutritious, alternative novel nutrition source for humans.

Automated summary

The powder from R. pedestris, which is rich in protein, amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, and minerals, can serve as a highly nutritious alternative source of nutrition for humans. Its amino acid and fatty acid content meets the requirements of humans, particularly preschool children and adults.