The effectiveness of Bau Peapi as a local complementary feeding on toddler growth: a quasi-experimental study in Majene

Diesna Sari* -  Department of Nutrition, University of West Sulawesi, Majene, West Sulawesi, Indonesia
Andi Fatwa Tenri Awaru -  Department of Nutrition, University of West Sulawesi, Majene, West Sulawesi, Indonesia
Nur Zakiah -  Department of Nutrition, University of West Sulawesi, Majene, West Sulawesi, Indonesia
DOI : 10.30867/action.v11i3.2925

Complementary feeding is essential for preventing malnutrition in toddlers; however, its nutritional quality remains suboptimal in many regions, and scientific evidence on the nutritional composition and effectiveness of Bau Peapi, a traditional Mandar fish-based local food, remains limited.  This study assessed the effect of Bau Peapi consumption on toddler growth and analyzed its nutritional content. A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest control group study was conducted among 60 undernourished children aged 6–24 months in the Totoli Community Health Center area of Majene. The intervention group received Bau Peapi CF and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) education, while the control group received only IYCF education for eight weeks. Anthropometric data were collected at baseline, midline, and endline, and dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour dietary recall. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests and repeated-measures ANOVA. The results showed that Bau Peapi content high protein (23.16%), vitamin C (475.54 ppm), and omega-3 fatty acids (DHA 12.82%; EPA 2.81%). Both groups showed significant weight gain (p<0.01), whereas a significant increase in length was only observed in the intervention group (p=0.003). In conclusion, Bau Peapi shows potential as a nutrient-dense local food to support child growth, particularly in terms of linear growth.

Keywords : Bau Peapi, complementary feeding, local food, body weight and body length

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AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal
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