Acceptability trial of local Indonesian snack (SISTIK) enriched with chicken liver and eggshell powder as a potential food to increase micronutrient intakes among women of reproductive age

Abstract:
Chronic micronutrient deficiencies in Indonesian women and young children contribute to poor foetal and infant growth. To address this, we formulated micronutrient-enriched crackers (MEC) incorporating nutrient-rich chicken liver, rich in iron, zinc, vitamin A, and B vitamins, along with powdered eggshells as a calcium source. Known locally as ' sistik,' MEC may provide a sustainable solution to improve micronutrient intakes. This study evaluated MEC acceptability among non-pregnant women of reproductive age to ensure safety and feasibility before extending future research to pregnant and lactating populations.
Methods: A single-blinded, two-phase acceptability trial involved 81 nonpregnant women aged 19-35 years in Ujung Berung Sub-district, Bandung City, Indonesia. In Phase 1, participants sampled both MEC of either MEC (n=41) or SWC (n=40). Adherence was determined mixed linear model for liking scores and a t-test for adherence.
Results: MEC received favourable ratings, with no significant differences compared to SWC in liking scores for colour (MEC 4.5±1.2 vs. SWC
comparable between groups (MEC: 50.8±23.0 g vs. SWC: 51.0±20.0 g; mean difference: -0.2 g; 95% CI: -6.5 to 6.1; p-value = 0.802).
Conclusion: MEC demonstrates reasonable acceptability and feasibility as a daily snack, supporting its potential as a dietary intervention to improve women’s micronutrient intake and reduce infant stunting, especially among those women who found it appealing.