Abstract

A survey on the particular importance of aminoacids and fatty acids component caterpillars’ Bunaeopsis aurantiaca, nowadays much more eaten by the South Kivu province people was assessed during the investigation. Samples of caterpillars formed by 150 specimens last stage were harvested in their ecological environment, brought to the laboratory and dried at 65°C for 72 hours and then incinerated in an oven at 550°C. Dry matter of the larvae obtained were analyzed by methods for protein and Kjeldal Folch for lipids. This study shows that Bunaeopsis aurantiaca caterpillars are excellent nutritional potential. These excavators are composed of 49.47% protein and content in its profile 5 major essential amino acids: aromatic amino acids (phenylalanine + tyrosine) 5.23g/16N, lysine 2.40g, 2.33g leucine and threonine 2.17 g/16N. 24.19% fats contain saturated and unsaturated acids amounting to 50.05% and 47.78% respectively of the total fatty acids, and 2.16% of other unidentified acids. Rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids: oleic acid C18: 1 ω9 40.28% and linoleic acid C18: 2 ω6 6.58%. Saturated fatty acids are represented by 38.53% of stearic acid; most abundant monitoring palmitic acid 10.05%. The overall results show that caterpillars Bunaeopsis aurantiaca are an important source of nutrients that can contribute to the harmonious development of human organism. The nutritional value is similar to that of meat and fish that are more costly for the poorest. Development of complementary foods made from flour caterpillars to overcome cultural constraints, should better offer to children and adults, for their significant nutritional value. Thus, in communities that are not accustomed to eating whole insects, pasta recipes and pellets could be better accepted.

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