DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sajb.2026.v14i09.004

Pages: 618-623

Irvingia gabonensis, known as the African wild mango or "ogbono," is a widespread species. Its seeds are traditionally used as food and have a significant content of lipids, proteins, dietary fiber, and minerals. The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of protein substitution with Irvingia gabonensis flour on anthropometric parameters in rats on a growth diet. Ten rats were used and divided into two groups: five (5) control rats and five (5) rats in the protein-substituted group, which was fed our specially formulated diets for three weeks. Protein substitution with Irvingia gabonensis flour resulted in a slight, gradual increase in body weight compared to initial weights. A decrease in feed intake was observed, along with very low fecal production. An increase in digestibility index from 6.77% to 578.37%, an increase in feed conversion ratio from 6.48% to 8.64%, and an increase in energy efficiency from 206.89% to 360.90% were observed. Finally, substituting Irvingia gabonensis meal for protein in a rat growth diet highlighted the nutritional and biological potential of this meal.