Nutritional Intervention With Tenebrio Molitor Powder in Children With Chronic Malnutrition in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

SANTE INITIATIVE: Nutritional Intervention With Tenebrio Molitor Powder in Children With Chronic Malnutrition in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether a dietary supplement based on Tenebrio molitor (mealworm flour) can improve nutritional status and biomarkers of micronutrient deficiency in children aged 2-10 years.

The main questions it aims to answer are:

• Does regular supplementation with Tenebrio molitor flour improve chronic malnutrition status

Researchers will compare the intervention group (children receiving Tenebrio molitor flour supplement) with the control group (children receiving a traditional maize-soy flour supplement) to assess differences in biochemical and anthropometric outcomes after the intervention period.

Participants will:

• Participate in baseline and follow-up anthropometric and blood sample assessments (hemoglobin, albumin, zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin B12, prealbumin).
• Consume a daily dietary supplement (either Tenebrio molitor flour or maize-soy flour) for the duration of the intervention.
• Provide information on dietary intake and general health status through structured questionnaires administered by the research team.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children diagnosed with chronic malnutrition (weight-for-height or BMI below -2 SD according to WHO standards).

Children whose families agree to participate in the intervention and sign the informed consent form.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children with severe acute illnesses that may interfere with the intervention.
• Children with known allergies to the ingredients of the nutritional products provided.