Nutritional profile, processing potential and food applications of Macrotermes nigeriensis powder: A comprehensive review

Pham My  Hao; Le Pham Tan Quoc; Nguyen Huynh Dinh  Thuan; Pham Thi Quyen

doi:10.17268/sci.agropecu.2026.042

Autores/as

Pham My Hao Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2797-3139
Le Pham Tan Quoc Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2309-5423
Nguyen Huynh Dinh Thuan Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8050-9509
Pham Thi Quyen Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3695-3703

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17268/sci.agropecu.2026.042

Palabras clave:

edible insect, functional properties, Macrotermes nigeriensis powder, sustainable protein

Resumen

Macrotermes nigeriensis is increasingly recognized as a nutrient-dense edible insect with significant potential for food and non-food applications. This review synthesizes current evidence on proximate composition, mineral and vitamin content, amino acid and fatty acid profiles, functional properties, and safety considerations of its powder. Existing studies consistently report high levels of protein, essential minerals (Fe, Zn), and vitamin C, together with low concentrations of antinutritional factors. When incorporated into various food matrices (including cakes, biscuits, and fermented cassava beverages) M. nigeriensis powder markedly enhances protein density, micronutrient content, and, in some cases, sensory acceptability. Protein isolates exhibit desirable emulsifying and foaming properties, supporting their potential use in food formulation. Beyond nutrition, the species also provides oils that may serve as unconventional feedstock for biodiesel production. Overall, M. nigeriensis represents a promising sustainable protein resource, but further multidisciplinary investigation is required to support its large-scale utilization. Future research should focus on: (i) long-term safety and toxicological evaluation, (ii) nutrient bioavailability and digestibility, (iii) detailed lipid profiling and its health implications, (iv) standardization of processing and preservation methods, and (v) consumer acceptance and market feasibility beyond endemic regions.

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