Sambalpur: Sambalpur University’s ‘Chhatua’ to Combat Malnutrition; Key Ingredient Black Rice
Sambalpur: There are always concerns about the quality of chhatua (a nutritious flour mixture distributed via Anganwadi centers). Many people complain that their children refuse to eat it, and it has even been discovered to be used as cattle feed. Meanwhile, the state continues to struggle with the stigma associated with malnutrition, with no significant improvements in child nutrition.
Sambalpur University Takes Initiative
Sambalpur University has taken a significant step toward combating childhood malnutrition. The university’s Department of Food Science and Nutrition has created a special chhatua blend called ‘Nutrinesst,’ which contains all of the essential vitamins and proteins needed for children’s health. According to the researchers, this new chhatua will boost children’s immunity, memory, and bone and muscle strength.
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Developed by PhD Student
Payal Sharma, a PhD student, prepared this blend under the supervision of her guide, Aparajita Priyadarshini, who explained that Nutrinesst would not only combat anemia but also aid in children’s rapid physical development. After successful mouse trials, the chhatua is now ready for widespread use.
Key Ingredient: Black Rice
The main ingredient in Nutrinesst is a type of black rice called Kalabati. The rice is cooked then ground into a powder. Additional ingredients include roasted ragi (finger millet) powder, roasted peanuts, soybean powder, milk powder, and jaggery. This combination ensures that Nutrinesst contains iron, amino acids, vitamin E, proteins, and antioxidants.
Research and Supervision
Professor Pradeep Nayak, director of Sambalpur University’s Centre of Excellence in Natural Product and Therapeutic Research, oversaw the study, which began in January 2023. The university’s startup forum has been actively involved in the development process under his direction.
