IIN - Cassava : consumption and digestion by small children

The IIN will conduct 2 controlled experiments to evaluate the effects of amounts offered, varietal differences, and processing methods on the consumption and digestibility of cassava (Manihot utilissima or esculenta) by small children. In the first study, 8 children will receive diets in which 25, 50, and 75% of calories are provided by cassava which has been peeled, boiled, mashed, and probably oven-dried, with preceding, intervening, and subsequent control diets; time to consume and digestibility will be determined. In the second, 2 groups of 8 children will each receive 1 of 2 varieties of cassava, each prepared in 1 of 3 ways -- as in the first study, as "founha de mandioca" (Brazil), or as partially fermented "gari" (Nigeria) -- with control diets as in the first study. Findings will be applied toward minimizing nutritional risks that may be associated with the expansion of cassava production. To reduce the negative effects of hospitalization on the subjects, a play therapy program will be organized and IIN staff will be trained in the principles of child development.