Journal of Agriculture and Food Sciences

Farmers’ perception of weed infestation and management in some Agrarian Communities of Southern nigeria

O.A. Aluko — 2024-08-06

Weed infestation is detrimental to crop yield and quality, limits farm size, increases the cost of production, reduces profit, and impairs farmers’ livelihood. This study was conducted to assess the weed infestation status based on the farmers’ perspective, the control measures adopted, and the potential weed problem in some agrarian communities in Derived Savanna agroecology. A Structured questionnaire was administered to one hundred and ten (110) farmers. Data were analyzed using the Descriptive analysis method. Most (75.5%) of the farmers were male and almost half (43.6%) had the mean farming experience of 22.46±9.99, while 46.4 percent had within 11-15 years of formal education. However, the mean age was 49.93±10.70 years. Most farmers (90%) had the lowest income level (N10000 – N50000). Farmers (25% – 50%) identified Cyperus rotundus, Imperata cylindrica, Tridax procumbens, Commelina bengalensis, Emilia sonchifolia, Axonopus compressus, Tithonia diversifolia, Pennisetum purpureum, and Euphorbia heterophylla as problematic weeds. Farmers understood and adopted manual weeding (100 %), and chemical (98.2 %) weed control methods. However, few farmers (2.7%) knew or adopted the concept of integrated weed management and biological weed control (3.6 %) methods for weed management. The farmers’ perception of weed infestation might be useful in early warning systems for preventing and managing noxious weeds and ensuring sustainable crop production. The training of farmers on the principles of integrated weed management (IWM) for effective weed control, improved crop yield, and livelihood is essential.

Influence of growth stages and soil types on performance of rice (Oryza sativa L.) accessions grown in flooded paddy soil

S.C Onuoha — 2024-08-06

Soil and its microorganisms have for long been known to contribute to the performance of plant with regards to nutrient availability and uptake, therefore knowledge of its properties and its role is very vital in crop productivity. The study focused on assessing the structure of microbial communities in the rhizosphere of rice plants in Ebonyi State, considering soil types, rice varieties, and plant growth stages. Soil samples were collected from paddy fields, sieved, and flooded with ionized water before planting four rice accessions from the Biotechnology Research Centre of EBSU. Physicochemical parameters of the soils were analyzed, showing slightly acidic pH levels, various fractions of sand, organic carbon, organic matter, and essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Pore water analysis revealed the presence of organic and inorganic ions, with higher concentrations of certain ions in planted soils compared to unplanted ones. The microbial population differed significantly between planted and unplanted soils, with varying effects of different rice accessions on microbial load. The study also observed changes in microbial populations at different growth stages of rice plants, with the microbial load decreasing as plants grew. The findings suggest that selecting adapted rice cultivars can enhance yields, reduce fertilizer usage, and improve food security. This research provides valuable insights for rice farmers and breeders to optimize productivity.

Fatty acid profile of oil extracted from the seeds of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and avocado (Persea Americana)

G.M. Saibu — 2024-08-06

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and Avocado (Persea americana) seeds are often considered as byproducts or waste in the food industry. This study investigated the fatty acid profile of oil derived from the seeds of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and avocado. Soxhlet extraction protocol was used to extract the oils, and their fatty acid compositions were analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The main fatty acids identified and quantified include saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The investigation revealed that the oil derived from Watermelon seeds (Citrullus lanatus) contained more unsaturated fatty acids than the oil from Avocado seeds (Persea americana). However, oil extracted from avocado seeds (Persea americana) has a larger percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids than oil extracted from watermelon seeds (Citrullus lanatus). As a result of its high concentration of essential oils, the oil derived from these two seed sources has the potential to be used in the food and cosmetics industries. The study's findings also shed light on the nutritional significance of these oils, particularly critical fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6. In conclusion, the study on the fatty acid profile of oils extracted from watermelon and avocado seeds holds promise for uncovering valuable information with implications for nutrition, health, agriculture, and industry.

Analysis of the determinants of savings among cassava processors in Imo State

L.U. Igwe — 2024-08-06

This study analyzed the factors that determine savings of cassava processors in Imo State. 180 cassava processors were randomly selected from the 6 Local Government Areas of Imo State to constitute the sample size. Data were collected through the administration of structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis were used in the analysis of data. The results showed that 75% of the cassava processors were females, a relatively large proportion (38.9%) of the processors were within the age range of 41-50years with a mean age of 43years and a mean processing experience of 8years. 51.67% of the cassava processors saved using thrift (akawo), 33.89% of these processors saved between N20,000 and N40,000 and this percentage saved on a weekly basis. 53.33% of the processors processed their tubers into garri, 37.5% of the garri processors earned between N100,000-N150,000 monthly. The garri processing enterprise was seen to have an average propensity to save of 33.4%. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that total income from both processing and nonprocessing activity, marital status, household size, processing experience, interest, and membership of cooperative were significant in determining savings. It is therefore recommended that low interest loan should be given to the processors of cassava products to enable them expand their enterprises and thus enhance their income and savings. Also, local saving platforms should be developed so as to make it more responsive to modern day financial activities.

Analysis of consumption pattern and food security status of cassava-based farmers in Imo State, Nigeria

M.N. Osuji — 2024-08-06

This study analyzed the food consumption patterns and food security status of cassava farmers in Imo State. Structured questionnaires were administered to 100 cassava farmers. The findings revealed that the cassava farmers mean age, farming experience, and farm sizes were 41 years, 22 years, and 0.66 hectares respectively. The food consumption pattern among the farming households showed that carbohydrate, ranked highest in the list of food items consumed daily (garri (31.18%), fufu (18.33%), plantain, and yam (13.07%). Only 35% of farming households were food secure, using the estimated Food Security Index of 0.003. The study recommends the implementation of pro-poor policies to boost farmers productivity and enhance balanced dietary food consumption among farmers. Farm families will be better able to make food decisions if they are informed about the importance of a healthy diet.

Nutritive and organoleptic evaluation of the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) smoked with briquette and charcoal

A.O. Akinwole — 2024-08-06

Smoking is a preservation method which improves the nutritional value and organoleptic properties of fish. However, consumers are becoming more aware of possible hazards and detrimental health impacts arising from food they consume and are more demanding in respect of freshness, freedom from pollutant and other intrinsic qualities of smoked fish. The nutritive and organoleptic qualities of African Catfish smoked using charcoal and briquette as energy source were assessed. Sensory evaluation was conducted on tenderness, taste, juiceness, texture, colour and overall acceptability of the smoked fish samples based on 9-point Hedonic scale. Proximate and nutritive value of the smoked fish was also determined using standard methods. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The mean value of crude protein, ash, ether extract, crude fibre and moisture content were 74.02±10.70, 4.53±1.20, 8.08±0.63, 8.08±0.63, 0.08±0.05 and 6.92±0.97 respectively for charcoal smoked fish samples and 76.86±2.95, 4.73±0.15, 8.08±0.33, 0.07±0.03 and 6.31±0.80 for briquette. The mean overall acceptability was also higher in charcoal (7.85±0.89) than briquette (7.72±0.52). T-test however showed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the overall acceptability between charcoal and briquette. In conclusion, briquette produce good quality smoked fish just like charcoal.

Production and postharvest constraints of soursop (Annona muricata-L) in Ogun state, Nigeria

O.B. Benson — 2024-08-06

No Abstract

Adaptation strategies to effects of climate change on vegetable production among women farmers in Imo State, Nigeria

Helen Adeola Egwuonwu — 2024-08-06

This study examined the adaptation strategies the women vegetable producers in Imo State, Nigeria, used in reducing the effects of climate change on their production of vegetables. Using an interview schedule and multistage sampling, ninety (90) women vegetable producers were chosen selected for this study. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were employed for the analysis. Result revealed that vegetable women farmers were aware of change in climate (98.88%) and mainly obtained information from extension agents (94.4%). The major effects that were perceived of climate change by women producing vegetables were low quality of vegetables (x̄ =3.17), loss of revenue (x̄=3.09), delay in maturation of vegetables (x̄ =3.02), increased postharvest loss (x̄=3.00), flooding of farmland (x̄ = 2.92), loss of suitable land for agriculture (x̄ = 2.89) and famine (x̄ = 2.82). The major adaptation strategies used were elevation of the farm walls with sandbags or blocks to channel floodwater (x̄ = 3.30), changing the planting/stocking time (x̄ =3.13), using improved crop varieties (x̄ = 3.10), avoidance of scorching by planting vegetables deeper than the usual planting depth (x̄ = 2.98), practicing mix cropping (x̄ = 2.96), using nursery for transplantable crops (x̄ =2.77), use of mulching materials for crops (x̄ = 2.70), change of harvesting date (x̄ = 2.70), using early maturity plants (x̄ = 2.70). However, the farmers identified constraints in the usage of adaptation strategies in vegetable production as limited access to agricultural extension officers (x̄=3.65), inadequate access to timely information on weather (x̄ = 3.50), inadequate credit facilities (x̄=3.24), inadequate farm labour (x̄ = 3.21), limited farm sizes (x̄ = 2.92), unpredictable weather (x̄ = 2.91) and insufficient access to water resources (x̄ = 2.67). Therefore, the study concludes that climate change threatened vegetable production and the study recommends that women vegetable farmers should have more contact with extension agents to give them access to appropriate adaptation strategies that can minimize the effects of climate change on vegetable production. Also, vegetable producers should practice effectively adaptation strategies to prevent flooding that can cause a reduction in available land for vegetable production.

Perceived effect of soil erosion on maize production in Imo State, Nigeria

Juochi P. Okoroh — 2024-08-06

This study analyzed the perceived effects of soil erosion on maize production in Imo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study ascertained the causes of soil erosion as perceived by maize farmers; ascertained the perceived effects of soil erosion on maize farmers’ production; identified the control measure used by maize farmers in coping with the effects of soil erosion on their production and identified constraints to the use of soil erosion control measures. A multistage sampling procedure was used in the selection of 180 maize farmers. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools and Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression analysis. Results showed that maize farmers perceived causes of soil erosion to include: excessive/heavy rainfall and flooding (x̄ = 3.107), overgrazing ((x̄ = 2.96), deforestation/ destruction of vegetation ( x̄ = 2.80), blocked or poor drainage system ( x̄ = 2.77 among others. Farmers perceived the effects of soil erosion as decline in maize yield when soil erodes (x̄ = 3.46); food insecurity and poverty (x̄ = 3.22); reduction in land for agricultural activities (x̄ = 3.32) among others. Maize farmers identified soil erosion control measure as filling the affected area with farm residue (86.67%), raising ridges to prevent water from running through to the farm (76.11%), building and structures should not obstruct water ways (68.33%), implementing cover crops, mulching, and cover crop (61.67%). Maize farmers were constrained to the use of soil control measure such as inadequate funding (78.89%), high cost of some erosion measures control (73.33%), lack of incentive from governments (70.00%), difficulty in acquiring land for forest establishment (68.89%). The result shows that age, marital status, level of education, household size, monthly farm income and extension contact influenced the maize farmers perceived effects of soil erosion on their maize production, these were significant at 1% probability level. The study concludes that there was prevalence of soil erosion in Imo and maize farmers were experiencing constrains in reducing soil erosion effects on their maize production. The study recommends among others that maize farmers should judiciously use their cooperative association by sharing relevant information in minimizing the effects of soil erosion on their farm land.

Consumer awareness and perception of genome-edited food: A case study in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

S.E. Adeboye — 2024-08-06

This study was aimed at evaluating the acceptance of genome-edited food in Nigeria. Utilizing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja as a case study, this study adopted a descriptive research design. Data was collected via a likert-scale based questionnaire administered to a sample population of 400 respondents to collect data on level of awareness on genome-edited food, factors influencing the attitude and perception, as well as strategies for enhancing consumer education and communication concerning genome edited food. Findings of this study indicate that respondents were familiar with genome-edited food to a little extent (30.1%) while a total of 48.5% were not aware of the availability of genome-edited food products currently available in the market. However, 36.8% of the respondents indicated willingness to consume genome-edited food once benefits are understood. Also, respondents indicated concerns about the safety of genome-edited foods to a very great extent (35.3%), while to a moderate extent (27.4%) respondents indicated that media report influenced their perception of genome-edited food to a moderate extent. Respondent also indicated that the reported current educational initiatives in informing the public about genome-edited food was not effective at all and therefore recommended that public discussions and forums about genome-edited food must be put in place by the government through the National Biosafety Management Agency.

Exploring the benefits, challenges, and rationale behind growing crops of choice among farmers in Rwanda

Francois Xavier Sunday — 2024-09-06

Farming decisions about crop choices are influenced by natural conditions, household needs, family traditions, stakeholder recommendations, and crop productivity. The best decision varies for each farmer based on the specific circumstances. In Rwanda, where agriculture employs 70% of the population and contributes 33% to GDP, the sector operates across three seasons. Despite these conditions, food and nutritional insecurity remain significant issues affecting both human and economic progress. This study explored the rationale, benefits, and challenges of farmers’ crop choices. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach. Six Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted, with two sessions per district. Each FGD included 10 participants and lasted one hour, maintaining gender balance. Local community health workers (CHWs) facilitated recruitment, and participants gave informed consent. Trained data collectors used voice recorders for data collection. Researchers transcribed, anonymized, and translated the data into English, then coded and analysed it to generate themes and categories.Farmers grow diverse crops for income, export, and household consumption, influenced by soil, climate, inherited knowledge, and stakeholder advice. Agriculture sustains their livelihoods through nutrition and financial stability. However, they face challenges like pests, input access, climate change, and soil-crop incompatibility. These findings call for holistic and context-specific solutions to agricultural development in Rwanda. Stakeholders should work together to support farmers in making informed choices and promoting sustainable and profitable agriculture.

Agricultural extension agents’ perception of work-life balance in Kwara State, Nigeria

R.S. Adisa — 2024-09-06

Work-life balance denotes a worker’s stability between the job and personal life. Work-life balance depicts employees accomplishing assigned duties and personal responsibilities without overlapping conflicts. This study investigated the Agricultural Extension Agents’ Perception of Work-Life Balance in Kwara State, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty respondents were selected for the study. The findings showed that the Extension agents have a high work-life balance. The statement that the leader creates a positive and supportive work environment (mean = 4.32) was the highest-ranked perception statement on leadership styles. The statement that extension agents arrive for work on time (mean = 4.47) was the highest-ranked perception statement on work-life balance. The statement that a good insurance scheme will make me take my job with all seriousness (mean = 4.59) was the highest-ranked factor influencing the work-life balance of the extension agents. The study concluded that the extension agents have a high work-life balance in Kwara State, Nigeria. The study therefore recommended that the extension organization should ensure the provision of motivational incentives such as insurance schemes and financial benefits to the extension agents

Polymorphism in grain architecture of rice landraces cultivated in northern Nigeria

H.U. Muhammad — 2024-09-06

This study investigated seed shape and size polymorphism in 70 rice genotypes from diverse ecological regions in Nigeria, including North-West, North-East, and North-Central. The aim was to profile these genotypes based on marketability and consumer preferences. Seed evaluation followed the International Rice Research Institute's (IRRI) standard protocol. Measurements of seed length and width, with and without husk, were taken using precise instruments. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and cluster analysis revealed significant variability in seed dimensions among landraces. Results showed that all genotypes were slender-shaped, with lengths ranging from 3.2 to 6.8 mm. Classification revealed 18.6% extra-long, 44.3% long, 25.7% medium, and 11.4% short-grained landraces. Cluster analysis grouped landraces by brown rice shape. This information is crucial for rice breeders, farmers, policymakers, and importers to develop effective strategies for future rice production and trade.

Bioactives and nutrients evaluation of the leaves and fruits of Solanum Melongena

E.O. Emeribe — 2024-09-06

Leaves and fruits of garden egg (Solanum melongena) were analyzed for proximate analysis, mineral contents, vitamins, quantification and determination of phytochemicals at the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology Laboratory, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria in October, 2018. Results of proximate analysis showed: moisture content (81.6 and 87.3) %, ash (0.86 and 0.52) %, fibre (3.2 and 1.3) %, protein (9.0 and 4.8) % fat, (1.4 and 0.7) % carbohydrate, (4.1 and 5.5) % for leaves and fruits respectively. Minerals were higher in leaves (Mg 135.2, Ca 89.6, K 45.4, Zn 1.9) g than fruit samples (Mg 65.8, Ca 13.4, K 39.3, Zn 0.16) g. On vitamins, leaves were also higher than the fruits (calcium (89.6, 13.4 mg/100) g, potassium (45.4, 39.3 mg/100) g, magnesium (135.2, 63.8 mg/100)g and zinc (1.9, 0.16 mg/100)g respectively. Both samples contained vitamins A and C with values of (4.95 mg/100, 1.15 mg/100) g and (13.03 mg/100, 5.52 mg/100) g for leaves and fruits respectively. The phytochemical composition results revealed the presence of bioactive compounds that are higher in leaves than fruits, such as alkaloids (2.50 and 0.08) %, flavonoid (1.30 and 1.10) %, phenols (0.033 and 0.009) % and tannin (0.18 and 0.03) % respectively. This study reveals the usefulness of Solanum melongena leaves and fruits for herbal and nutritional purposes, as they are rich in bioactive compounds, essential vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, making them suitable for treating high blood pressure, cancer, and other diseases.

Proximate, total starch,glycemic index, glycmic load and sensory analysis of fufu analogue products from maize residue

J.C. Ndulaka — 2024-09-06

Production and evaluation of fufu analogue products from maize residue were studied.Maize residue was blended with different quantities of food binders (psyllium husk and gelatin) for the production of fufu analogue products. Standard procedures were adopted in the analysis of the proximate compositions, total starch, hydrolysis index, estimated glycemic index, glycemic loads and sensory attributes of the fufu analogue products.The fufu analogue products had moisture content values ranging from 3.03% to 8.26%, crude protein contents 1.90% to 3.03%, crude fat contents 2.89% to 4.01%, ash contents 6.59% to 7.97%, crude fibre 50.38% to 65.82% and carbohydrate 16.14% to 31.40% respectively. Starch digestibility analysis showed that the total starch of the fufu analogue products to be within the range of 20.11g/100 g to 22.13g/100g, resistant starch 11.03 to 12.10g/100g, rapidly digestible 4.30 to 4.90/100g, slowly digestible starch 2.70 to 5.11g/100g. Hydrolysis index of the fufu analogue products was found between the ranges of 1.08 to 6.32%. The fufu analogue products had estimated glycemic indices ranging from 40.30% to 43.18% and glycemic loads ranging from 6.32 to 19.34%. The sensory results of the fufu analogue showed that products made of 5-10g psyllium husk rated highest (7.00) in terms of mouldability and overall acceptability. According to the study, all of the fufu analogue products recorded low glycemic indices and medium range glycemic loads and could be classified as functional foods. The fufu analogue product with the lowest glycemic load and index was made from 10g of psyllium husk.

Comparative evaluation of native and modified starches produced from rice, cocoyam and cassava

Ihemeje Austin — 2024-09-06

The study focused on comparative evaluation of native and modified starches produced from rice, cocoyam and cassava. Starch was respectively extracted from rice, cocoyam and cassava. The starch from each of the food material was divided into two parts. One part was modified while the other served as the raw counterpart giving a total of six samples. The functional, pasting and physical properties of the samples were analyzed. The results obtained for functional properties of the starches ranges from 1.21% to 3.82% (water absorption capacity), 0.26% to 0.85% (Bulk density), 0.84% to 2.49% (oil absorption capacity), 1.12% to 3.61% (swelling capacity), 1.61 to 7.63±0.04% (foaming capacity) and 6.34±0.05 to 6.56±0.02% (pH). Significant (p<0.05) differences were observed from the functional properties of the starches due to modification. The pasting properties analyzed were, peak, trough, breakdown, final and setback viscosities as well as pasting temperature and peak time with their values ranging from 96.40 to 216.16RVU, 32.32 to 163.94RVU, 17.89 to 64.51RVU, 59.33 to 276.3RVU, 25.24 to 111.39RVU, 60.78 to 83.26 0C and 3.80 to 6.00 minutes respectively. All the parameters analyzed for pasting properties as well as physical properties (solubility, pH, etc.) differed significantly (p<0.05) from each other. The study generally proved that modification enhanced the functional, pasting and physical properties of the respective starch samples. The modified starches are therefore recommended for inclusion in food formulation where their qualities can be harnessed.