PROXIMATE COMPOSITION AND MINERALS ANALYSIS OF SELECTED BABY FOOD
Abstract
This study analyzed the proximate and mineral composition of two selected commercial baby foods
(Cerelac and Yummy Baby Food) obtained from Sokoto, Nigeria. Standard laboratory procedures were
employed, including proximate analysis for moisture, ash, protein, fat, fiber, and carbohydrate, alongside
Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) for determining key minerals (Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, Zn).
Results revealed significant nutritional differences between the two brands. Cerelac showed higher protein
(7.69 g/100 g), fat (1.04 g/100 g), calcium (409.70 mg/100 g), and potassium (209.30 mg/100 g), suggesting
stronger contributions to growth and skeletal development. Yummy Baby Food, however, was richer in iron
(24.59 mg/100 g) and zinc (10.11 mg/100 g), nutrients essential for blood formation and immune function.
Both products exhibited low fiber (86
g/100 g), consistent with energy-dense formulations. The study concludes that while both products provide
key nutrients, their strengths differ, highlighting the importance of dietary diversity in infant feeding.
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