The Contribution of Forgotten Foods for Supporting Food Security in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta – Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Gunungkidul, one of the districts in the special region of Yogyakarta – Indonesia, was reported to have a significant number of food-insecure villages. However, it conserved various forgotten protein-source food as a regional heritage delicacy. This study aims to evaluate the contribution of forgotten foods (edible insects, aquatic animals, indigenous plants) to support food security among poor households in Gunungkidul district, Indonesia. Methods: Food security status was evaluated according to the method by Maxwell. The characteristics of socio-economic households, food consumption behaviour, nutritional status of children under five, and health status of mothers and children among the targets were also assessed through an interview using a structured coded questionnaire. The food consumption pattern was analyzed by using food recall 2 x 24 hours and a semi food frequency questionnaire. This study involved 240 poor households below the poverty line, mainly farmers (60%). Results: This study revealed that 48% of households were food-insecure, 39% were food-vulnerable, 8% were less food-secure, and 5% were food-secure. Aquatic animals and edible insects contributed as many as 22 making up for 1% of daily protein needs, respectively. A preference shifting on those forgotten foods seems to become one barrier to this contribution. Conclusion: The forgotten foods might be an alternative to a future challenge in supporting human well-being. In this case, aquatic animals and edible insects are considered as future protein sources.