Quality Dietary Intake in Adolescence: Assessment of Macronutrients, Minerals and Essential Amino Acids in School Meals Served in the FCT, North Central Nigeria

Energy, Macronutrients, Minerals, and Essential Amino Acids (EAA) were assessed from school meals served to adolescents in government boarding Schools in the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. Two Hundred and EightySix (286) secondary school students within the age range of 13-19 years were selected for this study. 56.6% of the students were female and the majority (60.8%) were aged 13-16yrs with average age of respondents as (15.75±1.11) and BMI range (17.4-18.37). Stunting (4.2%) and malnutrition prevalence (28%) were low with the majority of adolescents recorded as normal HFA(95.4%). Protein and energy sources were largely plant based, however, carbohydrates made up (28.03%-31.3%) of daily value which was lower than the RNI for adolescents per day. Protein (53.9% – 83.6%) and Fats (65.6%-158.02%) exceeded the RDA for population consumption and Energy (1070±196.7 (Kcal) intake was less than required. However, individual rations for daily consumption of protein, Energy and Fibre fell short of RNI. Moisture content (54.2-58.3%), ash (3.5-5.1%), fat (9.6-15.15%), protein (5.38-8.0%), crude fiber (0.8-1.3%), and carbohydrate (18.9-21%). Meals contained calcium (57.4-65.0mg), potassium (290-460mg), sodium (1030-1500 mg), iron (10.9-12mg), zinc (6.12-7.72mg), Mg (56.5-58.7mg) vitamin A (2.56-6.5 RAE), and vitamin C (0.024-0.041mg) Vitamin D (8.14-11.63mg) per 100 g of the school meals. Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Potassium were recorded as low for Recommended Nutrient Intake. Essential Amino acid (EAA) levels were quite higher than required per 100g of meal assessed for all nine EAA. In conclusion, dietary diversification of meals can be improved upon, to meet intricate adolescent nutrient needs.