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Proximate Composition, Fatty Acid Profile, and Microplastic Contamination of Edible Odonate Larvae (Aeshnidae: Anax sp.) in Rice Fields
Summary
This study evaluated the proximate composition, fatty acid profiles, and microplastic contamination of edible dragonfly larvae (Anax sp.) harvested from rice fields, finding nutritional value alongside measurable microplastic contamination in this traditionally consumed aquatic insect.
Although the human consumption of edible insects is a culturally well documented practice, the nutritional literature of aquatic insects has not been completely covered.The present study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the proximate composition, fatty acid profiles, and microplastic contamination of edible odonate larvae (Aeshnidae: Anax sp.).Nutrient analysis showed that the proximate composition was a good source of protein (65.70 g/100g dry weight).The major fatty acids were oleic (1.08 g/100g DW) and palmitic acid (1.01 g/100g DW).The long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid profile showed an abundance of linoleic, alpha-linolenic, and eicosapentaenoic acids.Total microplastics content found 694 items in the gastrointestinal tract, with a mean abundance of 11.57items/individual.Five distinct polymers, including polyethylene, polyamide, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and cellulose, were identified through chemical analysis of FTIR spectra.Future research should be conducted regarding a comprehensive nutritional study to as method for a nutritional reference on food safety and security.
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