Perceptions of Ujeqe and Amaranthus, a potential supplement for improved food and nutrition security of South Africa

Food security remains the bedrock of the sustainable well-being of all nations. However, the dietary lifestyles of many underprivileged persons are compromised by limited access to nutritious food, which contributes negatively to malnutrition in developing countries. Bread, a wheat-based staple food, is consumed globally. It has been made in diverse forms, including Ujeqe, a traditional bread that is appreciated among the Zulus in South Africa. Its complementary foods are beans and those of animal origin, including Usu (offal), which not all people access; therefore, its singular consumption can predispose the consumer to deficiency challenges, thereby positioning it as a strategic medium for the delivery of essential nutrients for optimum well-being. Hence, interest in bread supplementation remains vital for improving nutrient intake and well-being. A food-based strategy that encourages diversified diets for essential nutrient intake has been highlighted as a cost-effective and sustainable approach to tackle malnutrition at the household level. Thus, this study assesses the perceptions of Ujeqe and Amaranthus as a potential supplement for improved food and nutrition security of the rural households in Empangeni KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A mixed-design research approach was adopted for the study, and purposive convenience random sampling techniques were used to sample the population. A total of 100 structured questionnaires were generated, and clustered data of 91 respondents were preprocessed and analyzed using descriptive content analysis. The study's findings revealed that 92.59% of the respondents attested that Ujeqe is a traditional steamed bread indigenous to the study area. It is preferred because the ingredients are readily available, with an easy preparation mode. Moreover, Ujeqe is well appreciated and consumed as a main meal and a snack by all ages, excluding babies. Furthermore, 100% of the respondents in this study were familiar with Amaranthus leaves but were not familiar with their utilization as an ingredient in Ujeqe bread. Amaranthus is an underutilized crop. In this study, the respondents indicated their willingness to consume Amaranthus enriched-Ujeqe bread for improved food and nutrition security in rural communities. Therefore, awareness and processing of nutrient-dense plants, including (Amaranthus) cannot be overemphasized. Similarly, Amaranthus can be explored in Ujeqe bread for improved nutrient intake to address nutrition insecurity, especially in malnourished communities, including Empangeni KwaZulu-Natal Republic of South Africa.