A review of the contribution of cowpea leaves to food and nutrition security in East Africa

Evaluating the Toxicity of Synthetic Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles (HAPNPs) against Pulse Beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Insecta: Coleoptera)

The pulse beetle Callosobruchus maculatus is a serious insect pest of stored legumes. Therefore, the management of such pests has become a necessity as it causes great economic loss to its plant host. Unfortunately, pest management programs against C. maculatus encounter several obstacles, such as the generation of insecticide resistance and environmental hazards of traditional insecticides. The current study was designed to overcome these obstacles by using synthetic nanoparticles as alternative insecticides. In this study, a synthetic form of eggshell-based hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAPNPs) was used as a control agent against C. maculatus. This material was selected because of its environmental safety, which is ensured due to its wide spectrum of applications in our daily activities. HAPNPs originating from eggshells were characterized by XRD, FTIR, and TEM. The obtained results revealed a lack of impurities in the synthesized particles and that the average plate size is ∼62.8 nm, while the rod structure has a length and width of ∼91 nm and ∼22.7 nm, respectively. A comparative study on the toxicity of HAPNPs and Malathion insecticide against C. maculatus showed a significant impact of NPs originating from eggshells than the positive control insecticide. Based on this finding, further analyses were performed to understand its subsequent effects. Eggshell-based HAPNPs disrupted C. maculatus fecundity and adult emergence rate. In the meantime, it highly reduced the negative effects of C. maculatus on cowpea seeds. Scanning electron microscopy showed clear disruption of the insect integument wax layer and the aggregation of HAPNPs on the beetle's spiracles, leading to respiratory failure and hence the death of the insects. Interestingly, there was no impact of HAPNP application on total antioxidants and H2O2 levels in C. maculatus. These results introduce a novel management tool using a safer nanopesticide against the cowpea beetle.

Maximizing Photosynthesis and Plant Growth in African Legumes Through Rhizobial Partnerships: The Road Behind and Ahead

The interplay between soil rhizobial bacteria and leguminous plants, particularly in Africa, has a profound impact on photosynthetic efficiency and overall crop productivity. This review explores the critical role of rhizobia in enhancing photosynthesis through nitrogen fixation, a process crucial for sustainable agriculture. Rhizobial bacteria residing in root nodules provide legumes with symbiotic nitrogen that significantly boosts plant growth and photosynthetic capacity. Recent advances in molecular genomics have elucidated the genetic frameworks underlying this symbiosis, identifying key genes involved in root nodule formation and nitrogen fixation. Comparative genomics of Bradyrhizobium species have revealed seven distinct lineages, with diverse traits linked to nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and photosynthesis. Field studies across Africa demonstrate that rhizobial inoculation can markedly increase nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and grain yields, though outcomes vary depending on local soil conditions and legume species. Notable findings include enhanced nutrient uptake and photosynthetic rates in inoculated legumes compared with nitrate-fed plants. This review highlights the potential of utilizing indigenous rhizobia to improve photosynthesis and crop resilience. Future prospects involve leveraging genomic insights to optimize rhizobial inoculants and enhance legume productivity in water-limited environments. As climate change intensifies, integrating these advancements into agricultural practices could play a crucial role in improving food security and sustainable soil health in Africa.

Effects of different processing methods on the functional, nutritional, and physicochemical profiles of cowpea leaf powder

Indigenous fruits and vegetables can improve food security and biodiversity. However, their use is hindered by perishability, seasonal availability, cooking losses, lack of nutritional composition data, and connections to low socioeconomic status. This study aimed to process cowpea leaves into powder and determine the effect of five home-cooking methods on their protein, functional, physicochemical, and heavy metal profiles. Cowpea leaves were boiled, blanched, steamed, sous-vide cooked, and stir-fried, at 5, 10, and 15 min before dehydration at 60°C. Cowpea leaves contain protein up to 20 g/100 g. The leaves are rich in calcium, potassium, and zinc, providing up to 70% of the adult recommended dietary allowance for calcium and potassium per 100 g of powder. Cowpea leaf powder exhibited good water/oil absorption and rehydration capacities. Sous-vide and steamed cowpea leaves provided an overall superior nutritional profile (p ≤ 0.05). Heavy metals in the cowpea leaf powders were below the WHO permissible limits except for aluminum and high arsenic levels. This study demonstrated that cowpea leaf powders could be potentially incorporated into foods to improve functional properties and nutrient intake.

Influence of Blanching Time on the Phytochemical and Nutritive Value of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) Leafy Vegetable

Seasonal production limits the effective utilization of cowpea, which is regarded as food and a cash income crop in most African rural communities. To reduce the bacterial content and inactivate the naturally occurring enzymes that could induce undesirable changes during storage of the vegetable, blanching is applied. However, loss in flavor and nutritional value is experienced. Therefore, a study was conducted to investigate the effects of different blanching times on cowpea at a constant temperature, on its nutritive value. A 2 kg sample of fresh leaves was divided into four portions and blanched at 95°C for 0 (control), 2.5, 5, and 10 min. The study was arranged in a completely randomized design in triplicate. Collected data included moisture, total phenolic, antioxidant activity, and minerals [calcium (Ca), potassium (K), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), and silicon (Si)]. Compared to the control, total phenolic increased at 2.5 min to 9.83 mg GAE/g but then decreased by 4.99 and 4.60 mg GAE/g at 5 and 10 min of blanching time, respectively. Similarly, antioxidant activity increased at 2.5 min to 1025 μg AAE/g of WM, but reduced by 751.71 and 641.80 μg AAE/g of WM at 5 and 10 min, respectively. Ca increased at 2.5, 5, and 10 min by 69.10, 62.47, and 74.53 mg/L, respectively. Similarly, K increased at 2.5, 5, and 10 min by 31.57, 49.13, and 46.03 mg/L, respectively. Contrarily, Co decreased by 7.65, 7.37, and 9.29 mg/L at 2.5, 5, and 10 min of blanching, respectively. Similarly, Cr also decreased at 2.5, 5, and 10 min, by 0.23, 0.35, and 0.56 mg/L, respectively. Si increased at 2.5 and 10 min by 4.15 and 3.31 mg/L and reduced at 5 min by 1.61 mg/L. Therefore, blanching time of 2.5 min at a constant temperature of 95°C increased the tested nutritive elements, except for moisture, Co, and Cr.

Effects of food price on nutrition outcomes among women in Nigeria

Nutrition outcomes (undernutrition, overweight, and obesity) among women are growing concerns across the globe. Currently, the rate of undernutrition and overweight among women in Nigeria is ranked among the highest in Africa. A major contributory factor reported is unstable food prices in the country. This study, therefore, examined the effects of food prices on nutrition outcomes among women in Nigeria. Secondary datasets retrieved from two different sources were used for this study. Cross-sectional data on weight and height for women were obtained from Nigeria Health Demographic Survey (NHDS). Data on monthly prices of the selected food items were obtained from the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The data were categorized into energy dense (yam tuber, garri, rice, and maize) and nutrient dense (egg, beef, and chicken). Multinomial logit regression was used to estimate the relationship between the prices of energy and nutrient-dense food prices concerning respondents' personal and environmental characteristics such as age, wealth status, and region; as well as the three nutrition outcomes for women (undernutrition, overnutrition, and obesity). This study revealed that the prevalence of overweight and obesity among women was 19.9% and 10.3%, respectively. Nutrition outcomes (obesity and overweight) were positively correlated with the price of energy-dense food with 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively. Nutrient-dense food price is negatively correlated with undernutrition with a probability of 0.1%. The study recommends that food policy instruments such as food prices and subsidies can be introduced to favor the consumption of healthier food to stem the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Nigeria.

Vigna unguiculata L. Walp. Leaves as a Source of Phytochemicals of Dietary Interest: Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction and Assessment of Traditional Consumer Habits

Vigna unguiculata L. Walp. is an African crop spread worldwide mainly for pulses production. Despite being a neglected and under-utilized food, cowpea leaves are a rich source of phytochemicals and micronutrients. The aim of the work is to characterize the phytochemical composition of cowpea leaves by an optimized ultrasound-assisted extraction (USAE) and to compare raw and boiled leaves. A three-level factorial design (Box-Behnken) was employed for the optimization of the USAE considering three different parameters (% ethanol, drug-to-solvent ratio, and number of cycles). The optimized extracts were characterized by LC/MS/MS. Finally, leaves were boiled at 100 °C for 30 min to simulate traditional cooking procedures and compared to raw leaves. The best extraction condition was EtOH/H2 O 1 : 2 v/v, drug to solvent ratio 1 : 47 w/v, and 3 extraction cycles. The phytochemicals identified mainly belong to the family of phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Boiled leaves revealed a significant loss of most phytochemicals and a net decrease of their antioxidant activity compared to the raw ones. The results highlight the potential nutraceutical value of cowpea leaves whilst the impoverishment triggered by traditional consumer habits pushes the need to evaluate alternative cooking procedures helpful in the maintenance of their phytochemical properties.

Gender trait preferences among smallholder cowpea farmers in northern Ghana: lessons from a case study

Introduction

This case study reports on how a gender responsive breeding program contributes to meeting the trait preference of men and women for improved cowpea varieties in northern Ghana.

Methods

Fifty-eight early-maturing, medium-maturing and dual-purpose cowpea lines were planted at the CSIR-SARI research fields and women and men farmers invited for participatory plant breeding (PPB) in 2016. Selected lines from the PPB were further evaluated in 2017 using participatory varietal selection (PVS) in 5 districts in northern Ghana. In addition, 20 focus group discussions (FGDs) were held in 2018 in 10 randomly selected communities with 260 participants (130 women and 130 men) across the districts where the PVS had been held previously.

Results and discussion

The study finds drought tolerance, short cooking time and pest resistance to be the most preferred cowpea traits among both men and women. The study also finds that gender differences exist in trait preference, especially for traits such as seed coat color, earliness, pod above canopy and indeterminate growth habit. As breeding programs focus on improving genetic gains for tolerance of biotic and abiotic stresses, equal attention must be given to breeding for traits desired by women.

A Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals Region Associated with Seed Protein Content in Cowpea

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp., 2n = 2x = 22) is a protein-rich crop that complements staple cereals for humans and serves as fodder for livestock. It is widely grown in Africa and other developing countries as the primary source of protein in the diet; therefore, it is necessary to identify the protein-related loci to improve cowpea breeding. In the current study, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on 161 cowpea accessions (151 USDA germplasm plus 10 Arkansas breeding lines) with a wide range of seed protein contents (21.8~28.9%) with 110,155 high-quality whole-genome single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to identify markers associated with protein content, then performed genomic prediction (GP) for future breeding. A total of seven significant SNP markers were identified using five GWAS models (single-marker regression (SMR), the general linear model (GLM), Mixed Linear Model (MLM), Fixed and Random Model Circulating Probability Unification (FarmCPU), and Bayesian-information and Linkage-disequilibrium Iteratively Nested Keyway (BLINK), which are located at the same locus on chromosome 8 for seed protein content. This locus was associated with the gene Vigun08g039200, which was annotated as the protein of the thioredoxin superfamily, playing a critical function for protein content increase and nutritional quality improvement. In this study, a genomic prediction (GP) approach was employed to assess the accuracy of predicting seed protein content in cowpea. The GP was conducted using cross-prediction with five models, namely ridge regression best linear unbiased prediction (rrBLUP), Bayesian ridge regression (BRR), Bayesian A (BA), Bayesian B (BB), and Bayesian least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (BL), applied to seven random whole genome marker sets with different densities (10 k, 5 k, 2 k, 1 k, 500, 200, and 7), as well as significant markers identified through GWAS. The accuracies of the GP varied between 42.9% and 52.1% across the seven SNPs considered, depending on the model used. These findings not only have the potential to expedite the breeding cycle through early prediction of individual performance prior to phenotyping, but also offer practical implications for cowpea breeding programs striving to enhance seed protein content and nutritional quality.

Can consumption of local micronutrient- and absorption enhancer-rich plant foods together with starchy staples improve bioavailable iron and zinc in diets of at-risk African populations?

Iron and zinc deficiencies remain prevalent in developing countries, often due to monotonous starchy diets that are low in bioavailable minerals. This review addresses the question as to whether consumption of starchy staple foods in Africa together with micronutrient-dense and absorption enhancer-rich plant foods can enhance iron and zinc bioavailability in the diets of at-risk populations. While green leafy vegetables (GLVs) fortification of starchy staples can improve mineral contents, especially iron, it may not improve bioavailable iron and zinc, due to GLVs' high contents of mineral absorption inhibitors, notably polyphenols, phytate and calcium. Fruits, although low in minerals, could improve bioavailable iron and zinc in the staples because of their high ascorbic and citric acid and/or β-carotene contents, which can form soluble chelates with the minerals. More human studies are needed to establish whether such a technology or fortification strategy can improve bioavailable iron and zinc in African-type plant-based diets.

GC/MS and LC/MS Phytochemical Analysis of Vigna unguiculata L. Walp Pod

Vigna unguiculata (L. Walp) or Cowpea pod methanolic extracts phytochemical analysis, total phenolic content (TPC), and secondary metabolite profiling were determined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS) analysis. GC/MS analysis revealed twenty compounds in the extract, while LC/MS analysis identified twenty-four compounds. GC/MS chromatogram analysis suggested the presence of opioid α-N-Normethadol a major constituent found in methanolic extract and fatty acid esters carotenoid is found second major constituent. LC/MS chromatogram and the mass spectral analysis demonstrated the presence of flavonoids, carotenoids, and alkaloids as major phytochemicals. We investigated the antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-oxidant activity of pod methanolic extract. The extract was found equally effective against E. coli, S. pyogenes, and P. aeruginosa with MIC 100 μg/mL similar to the standard Ampicillin (MIC 100 μg/mL). C. albicans were found to be most susceptible to Vign unguiculata pods methanolic extract with a MIC of 250 μg/mL. The pod extract showed significant DPPH scavenging activity (IC₅₀ =78.38±0.15) which suggests its antioxidant potential.

Improvement in cowpea variety Videza for traits of extra earliness and higher seed yield

The cowpea variety Videza, which was used as the control, matures early (70 days after planting), although it produces low yields. Gamma irradiation mutagenesis was used to induce Videza into extra-early maturing and higher yielding mutant genotypes. A single seed descend population was developed for radio-sensitivity test, and a Lethal Dose 50 (LD₅₀) of 240.5 Gy was determined, and applied from a cobalt-60 (⁶⁰Co) source, to acutely mass irradiate 1800 Videza seeds, at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission. The irradiated seeds (M1) were planted to produce M2 seeds bearing plants and subsequently advanced to M3 plants for selection of nine induced plants based on extra earliness and significantly higher seed yields than the parental control. It took 48 days after planting (DAP) for the genotype coded P1N02#1 to reach 50 % maturity followed by 52 DAP for genotypes with codes P4N03#3; P3N01#5; P5N05#6, P4N14#7, P5N07#8, P5N05#10 and 54 DAP for genotype P4N14#11. P1N06#9 had the highest yield (97.38 g/plant), followed by P5N05#10 (95.97 g/plant), P1N08#13 (81.24 g/plant), P2N09#12 (73.94 g/plant), P6N10#19 (70.83 g/plant), P1N06#20 (65.36 kg/plant), P5N07#14 (61.23 g/plant), P4N14# (58.05 g/plant) and P1N08#17 (56.23 g/plant). M3 seeds were advanced to M4 plants for a Preliminary Yield Trial which revealed that induced plants P5N05#10 (1235 kg/ha), P2N09#12 (1206 kg/ha), P5N07#14 (1185 kg/ha), P1N06#20 (1171 kg/ha), P1N06#9 (1051 kg/ha), P1N08#13 (1041 kg/ha), and P6N10#19 (999 kg/ha) outperformed the control (517 kg/ha) and two other commercial varieties. Overall, the two highest performing candidates for further evaluation for varietal release were P5N05#10 and P2N09#12.

Co-Inoculation with Azospirillum brasilense and Bradyrhizobium sp. Enhances Nitrogen Uptake and Yield in Field-Grown Cowpea and Did Not Change N-Fertilizer Recovery

This study was designed to investigate the effects of Azospirillum brasilense and Bradyrhizobium sp. co-inoculation coupled with N application on soil N levels and N in plants (total N, nitrate N-NO3- and ammonium N-NH4+), photosynthetic pigments, cowpea plant biomass and grain yield. An isotopic technique was employed to evaluate 15N fertilizer recovery and derivation. Field trials involved two inoculations-(i) single Bradyrhizobium sp. and (ii) Bradyrhizobium sp. + A. brasilense co-inoculation-and four N fertilizer rates (0, 20, 40 and 80 kg ha-1). The co-inoculation of Bradyrhizobium sp. + A. brasilense increased cowpea N uptake (an increase from 10 to 14%) and grain yield (an average increase of 8%) compared to the standard inoculation with Bradyrhizobium sp. specifically derived from soil and other sources without affecting 15N fertilizer recovery. There is no need for the supplementation of N via mineral fertilizers when A. brasilense co-inoculation is performed in a cowpea crop. However, even in the case of an NPK basal fertilization, applied N rates should remain below 20 kg N ha-1 when co-inoculation with Bradyrhizobium sp. and A. brasilense is performed.

Breeding of Vegetable Cowpea for Nutrition and Climate Resilience in Sub-Saharan Africa: Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges

Currently, the world population is increasing, and humanity is facing food and nutritional scarcity. Climate change and variability are a major threat to global food and nutritional security, reducing crop productivity in the tropical and subtropical regions of the globe. Cowpea has the potential to make a significant contribution to global food and nutritional security. In addition, it can be part of a sustainable food system, being a genetic resource for future crop improvement, contributing to resilience and improving agricultural sustainability under climate change conditions. In malnutrition prone regions of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries, cowpea has become a strategic dryland legume crop for addressing food insecurity and malnutrition. Therefore, this review aims to assess the contribution of cowpea to SSA countries as a climate-resilient crop and the existing production challenges and perspectives. Cowpea leaves and immature pods are rich in diverse nutrients, with high levels of protein, vitamins, macro and micronutrients, minerals, fiber, and carbohydrates compared to its grain. In addition, cowpea is truly a multifunctional crop for maintaining good health and for reducing non-communicable human diseases. However, as a leafy vegetable, cowpea has not been researched and promoted sufficiently because it has not been promoted as a food security crop due to its low yield potential, susceptibility to biotic and abiotic stresses, quality assurance issues, policy regulation, and cultural beliefs (it is considered a livestock feed). The development of superior cowpea as a leafy vegetable can be approached in different ways, such as conventional breeding and gene stacking, speed breeding, mutation breeding, space breeding, demand-led breeding, a pan-omics approach, and local government policies. The successful breeding of cowpea genotypes that are high-yielding with a good nutritional value as well as having resistance to biotics and tolerant to abiotic stress could also be used to address food security and malnutrition-related challenges in sub-Saharan Africa.

Consumer demand for novel fruit and vegetable products with extended shelf lives in East Africa: a multinational multi-product analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the potential of products made out of underutilised fruits and vegetables for closing seasonal nutritional gaps among rural and urban consumers in East Africa.

DESIGN

The multinational analysis combines sensory testing and experimental auctions to assess consumers' perceptions and willingness to pay (WTP) for 6 different fruit and vegetable products.

SETTING

Open markets in rural and urban areas in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

PARTICIPANTS

There were 939 male and female adults who were at least 18 years old.

RESULTS

Tobit models for each product show that besides sensory perception, similar socio-demographic characteristics influence consumers' WTP for these products in all 3 countries. The products are especially liked among younger, male and urban consumers.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that there is demand and a potential market for processed fruit and vegetable products based on indigenous raw material in East Africa. The products, thus, have promising potential to improve nutrition, especially during off-season conditions when access to fresh produce is limited.

Barriers and Facilitators in Preparation and Consumption of African Indigenous Vegetables: A Qualitative Exploration From Kenya

Malnutrition and food security continue to be major concerns in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). In Western Kenya, it is estimated that the double burden of malnutrition impacts 19% of adults and 13–17% of households. One potential solution to help address the concern is increased consumption of nutrient-dense African Indigenous Vegetables (AIVs). The objectives of this study were to: (i) document current methods used for preparation and consumption of AIVs; (ii) identify barriers and facilitators of AIVs consumption and preparation; and (iii) identify a package of interventions to increase the consumption of AIVs to promote healthy diets. This study used qualitative data collected from 145 individual farmers (78 female and 67 male) in 14 focus group discussions (FGDs) using a semi-structured survey instrument. Most farmers reported that they prepared AIVs using the traditional method of boiling and/or pan-cooking with oil, tomato, and onion. However, there were large discrepancies between reported cooking times, with some as little as 1–5 min and others as long as 2 h. This is of importance as longer cooking times may decrease the overall nutritional quality of the final dish. In addition, there were seasonal differences in the reported barriers and facilitators relative to the preparation and consumption of AIVs implying that the barriers are situational and could be modified through context-specific interventions delivered seasonally to help mitigate such barriers. Key barriers were lack of availability and limited affordability, due to an increase cost, of AIVs during the dry season, poor taste and monotonous diets, and perceived negative health outcomes (e.g., ulcers, skin rashes). Key facilitators included availability and affordability during peak-season and particularly when self-produced, ease of preparation, and beneficial health attributes (e.g., build blood, contains vitamins and minerals). To promote healthy diets within at risk-populations in Western Kenya, the findings suggest several interventions to promote the preparation and consumption of AIVs. These include improved household production to subsequently improve affordability and availability of AIVs, improved cooking methods and recipes that excite the family members to consume these dishes with AIVs, and the promotion of the beneficial heath attributes of AIVs while actively dispelling any perceived negative health consequences of their consumption.

Potential Role of African Fermented Indigenous Vegetables in Maternal and Child Nutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa

Hunger and malnutrition continue to affect Africa especially the vulnerable children and women in reproductive age. However, Africa has indigenous foods and associated traditional technologies that can contribute to alleviation of hunger, malnutrition, and communicable and noncommunicable diseases. The importance of African indigenous vegetables is undeniable, only that they are season-linked and considered as "food for poor" despite their high nutritional contents. The utilization of African indigenous vegetables (AIVs) is hindered by postharvest losses and antinutrients affecting the bioavailability of nutrients. In Africa, fermentation is among the oldest food processing technologies with long history of safe use. Apart from extending shelf life and improving food organoleptic properties, fermentation of African indigenous vegetables (AIVs) is known to improve food nutritional values such as proteins, minerals, vitamins, and other beneficial phytochemicals. It can also increase bioavailability of various vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals and increase synthesis of vital blood pressure regulators thus protecting against cardiovascular diseases and cancer and further helping fight certain malnutrition deficiencies. Some lactic acid bacteria (LAB) involved in food fermentation are known to produce exopolysaccharides with cholesterol-lowering, immunomodulator, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Fermented foods (vegetables) are superior in quality and safety since most microorganisms involved in fermentation are good starter cultures that can inhibit the growth of foodborne pathogens and detoxify harmful compounds in foods. Thus, fermented foods can boost growth and well-being in children and women due to their higher nutritional contents. Therefore, fermentation of AIVs can contribute to the attainment of food and nutrition security especially among women and children who rely on these vegetables as a staple source of micronutrients and income. These benefits have a positive impact on the implementation of the second sustainable development goals and African Union agenda 2063. This review is aimed at shedding light on the potential of African fermented indigenous vegetables in combating maternal and child malnutrition in Sub-Sahara Africa.

Phytochemical analysis by GC-MS, LC-MS complementary approaches and antimicrobial activity investigation of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. leaves

Consumption of legumes has long been linked to their nutritional and medicinal benefits. Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. (Cowpea) is a legume plant in the Fabaceae family and is a rich source of nutrients also is known for its beneficial effects for diseases treatment. In terms of phytochemicals analysis and bioactivities evaluations the major research has focused on the Cowpea seeds, whereas leaves and pods are remained understudied. Herein we have highlighted leaves methanolic extract phytochemicals identification, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activity assessment. Cowpea leaves methanolic extract Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis first time revealed the presence of α-hederin, which is a putative novel SARS-COV-2 inhibitor and Zearlenone mycotoxin. Leaves methanolic extract exhibited strong activity against Streptococcus pyogens and Candida albicans. The Cowpea leaves extract is a potent DPPH inhibitor with an IC₅₀ of 62.04 ± 0.08 μg/mL. The bioactive compounds identification in this work supports the plant's nutritional and medicinal uses.

Constraints and Prospects of Improving Cowpea Productivity to Ensure Food, Nutritional Security and Environmental Sustainability

Providing safe and secure food for an increasing number of people globally is challenging. Coping with such a human population by merely applying the conventional agricultural production system has not proved to be agro-ecologically friendly; nor is it sustainable. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp) is a multi-purpose legume. It consists of high-quality protein for human consumption, and it is rich in protein for livestock fodder. It enriches the soil in that it recycles nutrients through the fixation of nitrogen in association with nodulating bacteria. However, the productivity of this multi-functional, indigenous legume that is of great value to African smallholder farmers and the rural populace, and also to urban consumers and entrepreneurs, is limited. Because cowpea is of strategic importance in Africa, there is a need to improve on its productivity. Such endeavors in Africa are wrought with challenges that include drought, salinity, the excessive demand among farmers for synthetic chemicals, the repercussions of climate change, declining soil nutrients, microbial infestations, pest issues, and so forth. Nevertheless, giant strides have already been made and there have already been improvements in adopting sustainable and smart biotechnological approaches that are favorably influencing the production costs of cowpea and its availability. As such, the prospects for a leap in cowpea productivity in Africa and in the enhancement of its genetic gain are good. Potential and viable means for overcoming some of the above-mentioned production constraints would be to focus on the key cowpea producer nations in Africa and to encourage them to embrace biotechnological techniques in an integrated approach to enhance for sustainable productivity. This review highlights the spectrum of constraints that limit the cowpea yield, but looks ahead of the constraints and seeks a way forward to improve cowpea productivity in Africa. More importantly, this review investigates applications and insights concerning mechanisms of action for implementing eco-friendly biotechnological techniques, such as the deployment of bio inoculants, applying climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices, agricultural conservation techniques, and multi-omics smart technology in the spheres of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, for improving cowpea yields and productivity to achieve sustainable agro-ecosystems, and ensuring their stability.

Genetic variability, heritability and correlation analysis among maturity and yield traits in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp) in Northern Ghana

Experimental studies were conducted to evaluate 16 advanced breeding lines of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp) for genetic variability, heritability and correlation between maturity and yield related traits. The genotypes exhibited significant (P < 0.05) differences for the eight traits evaluated viz., number of days to 50 % flowering, number of days to 90 % pod maturity, plant height at maturity, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod yield, grain yield and hundred seed weight. SARI-3-11-100, SARI-6-2-6, SARVX-09-004 and IT07K-299-6 had grain yields of 1.99 ± 0.30, 1.88 ± 0.20, 1.95 ± 0.30 and 1.91 ± 0.20 t/ha, respectively, which were significantly higher than the check (Songotra) (1.68 ± 0.01 t/ha). In addition, SARI-5-5-5 matured significantly earlier than the check but no significant difference was observed for grain yield. The higher value of phenotypic component compared to the corresponding genotypic component for all the traits suggest that there was an environmental influence on the performance of the genotypes. Hence, the need for multi-location evaluation of the promising lines for onward release if found stable. The information provided in this study, can be exploited in cowpea breeding program.

African nightshades (Solanum nigrum complex): The potential contribution to human nutrition and livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa

Achieving zero hunger in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) without minimizing postharvest losses of agricultural products is impossible. Therefore, a holistic approach is vital to end hunger, simultaneously improving food security, diversity, and livelihoods. This review focuses on the African nightshades (ANS) Solanum spp. contribution to improving food and nutrition security in SSA. Different parts of ANS are utilized as food and medicine; however, pests and diseases hinder ANS utilization. African nightshade is rich in micronutrients such as β-carotene, vitamins C and E, minerals (iron, calcium, and zinc), and dietary fiber. The leaves contain a high amount of nutrients than the berries. Proper utilization of ANS can contribute to ending hidden hunger, mainly in children and pregnant women. Literature shows that ANS contains antinutritional factors such as oxalate, phytate, nitrate, and alkaloids; however, their quantities are low to cause potential health effects. Several improved varieties with high yields, rich in nutrients, and low alkaloids have been developed in SSA. Various processing and preservation techniques such as cooking, drying, and fermentation are feasible techniques for value addition on ANS in SSA; moreover, most societies are yet to adopt them effectively. Furthermore, promoting value addition and commercialization of ANS is of importance and can create more jobs. Therefore, this review provides an overview of ANS production and challenges that hinder their utilization, possible solutions, and future research suggestions. This review concludes that ANS is an essential nutritious leafy vegetable for improving nutrition and livelihoods in SSA.

Comparative profiling of lactic acid bacteria isolates in optimized and spontaneous fermentation of cowpea leaves

In as much as spontaneous fermentation of cowpea leaves enhances product diversification, the process is rather slow with poor product quality. Limited work has been undertaken to provide input toward standardization of the process and enhancing of product quality. The current study sought to evaluate the in-process fermentative bacteria profile changes due to the effect of optimization of fermentation process of cowpea leaves. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates from spontaneous and optimized fermentation were characterized using biochemical tests, whereby optimization was done using the Response Surface Methodology model of the central composite design in the Design Expert Software. The RSM models accounted for 89% and 60% variability in the response variables of pH and titratable acidity, respectively (p < .001). Increasing the sugar concentration and period of fermentation significantly (p < .05) increased the titratable acidity, while reducing the pH. The optimal fermentation parameters were established as sugar and salt concentrations of 5% and 2%, respectively, 16 days of fermentation, pH of 3.8 and titratable acidity of 1.22% with a desirability of 0.859. Of the 13 identified LAB isolates, Lactobacillus brevis and Lactococcus lactis dominated the onset stage of spontaneous fermentation whereas only Lactobacillus brevis dominated the onset stage of optimized fermentation. Additionally, the final stage with the dominant isolates of L. plantarum was longer in the spontaneous fermentation process than in the optimized process. Evidently, optimizing the fermentation process resulted in increasing dominance by heterofermenters in the production of soured cowpea leaves, with the yielded product having enhanced acidity.

Iron-Enriched Nutritional Supplements for the 2030 Pharmacy Shelves

Iron deficiency (ID) affects people of all ages in many countries. Due to intestinal blood loss and reduced iron absorption, ID is a threat to IBD patients, women, and children the most. Current therapies can efficiently recover normal serum transferrin saturation and hemoglobin concentration but may cause several side effects, including intestinal inflammation. ID patients may benefit from innovative nutritional supplements that may satisfy iron needs without side effects. There is a growing interest in new iron-rich superfoods, like algae and mushrooms, which combine antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with iron richness.

Contributions of African Crops to American Culture and Beyond: The Slave Trade and Other Journeys of Resilient Peoples and Crops

There is a general unawareness of food crops indigenous to the African continent that have contributed to Western culture. This under-appreciation is particularly relevant in the current context of societal movements to end historic racism and value the contributions of peoples of African origin and African skin colors. Lack of awareness of the contributions of Africa's crops has negative practical consequences, including inadequate investments in preserving and maximizing the use of crop diversity to facilitate breeding. This paper provides an overview and analysis of African crops that have made significant contributions to the United States and globally, and/or hold potential in the twenty-first century. The paper specifically discusses watermelon, coffee, kola, rooibos, oil palm, shea, cowpea/black eyed pea, leafy greens, okra, yam, sorghum, pearl millet, finger millet, teff, and fonio. The review focuses on the intersection of these crops with racialized peoples, with a particular focus on African-Americans starting with slavery. The analysis includes the sites of domestication of African crops, their historical migration out of Africa, their sociocultural contributions to cuisines and products around the world, their uses today, and the indigenous knowledge associated with traditional cultivation and landrace selection. The untapped potential of local genetic resources and indigenous agronomic strategies are also described. The review demonstrates that African crops played an important role in the development of American cuisine, beverages and household products. Many of these crops are nutritious, high value and stress tolerant. The paper concludes that African crops hold significant promise in improving the resiliency of global food production systems, to mitigate climate change and alleviate food insecurity and rural poverty, especially in dry regions of the world. It is hoped that this review contributes to teaching the next generation of agriculturalists, food scientists and international development professionals about the valuable contributions of Africa's resilient crops and peoples.

High-Throughput Sequencing Application in the Diagnosis and Discovery of Plant-Infecting Viruses in Africa, A Decade Later

High-throughput sequencing (HTS) application in the field of plant virology started in 2009 and has proven very successful for virus discovery and detection of viruses already known. Plant virology is still a developing science in most of Africa; the number of HTS-related studies published in the scientific literature has been increasing over the years as a result of successful collaborations. Studies using HTS to identify plant-infecting viruses have been conducted in 20 African countries, of which Kenya, South Africa and Tanzania share the most published papers. At least 29 host plants, including various agricultural economically important crops, ornamentals and medicinal plants, have been used in viromics analyses and have resulted in the detection of previously known viruses and novel ones from almost any host. Knowing that the effectiveness of any management program requires knowledge on the types, distribution, incidence, and genetic of the virus-causing disease, integrating HTS and efficient bioinformatics tools in plant virology research projects conducted in Africa is a matter of the utmost importance towards achieving and maintaining sustainable food security.

Comparison of Phenolic Compounds, Carotenoids, Amino Acid Composition, In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Diabetic Activities in the Leaves of Seven Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) Cultivars

Cowpea is a well-known nutrition rich African leafy vegetable that has potential to sustain food and nutrition insecurity in sub-Saharan Africa. Consumption of cowpea legumes is associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate the (i) variation in phenolic metabolites in seven cowpea cultivars (VOP1, VOP2, VOP3, VOP4, VOP5, VOP7, and VOP8 using UHPLC coupled with high resolution Q-TOF-MS technique, (ii) in vitro antioxidant activity using ferric reducing/antioxidant capacity (FRAP) assay (iii) in vitro anti-diabetic effects and (iv) composition of carotenoids and amino acids of theses cowpea cultivars. The results of this study demonstrated that gentisic acid 5-O-glucoside, quercetin 3-(2G-xylosylrutinoside) and Quercetin 3-glucosyl-(1->2)-galactoside were highest in VOP1 VOP4 and VOP5, respectively. High inhibition (>50%) of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities was shown by the leaf extracts (50 and 25 mg/mL) of VOP1 and VOP4. Cowpea cultivars VOP1 and VOP4 demonstrated the highest gene expression levels of regulation of glucose transporter GLUT4 in C2C12 skeletal muscle cells, similar to insulin. A positive correlation exited between the phenolic components and the inhibitory effect of antidiabetic enzymes and FRAP activity. Cytotoxic effect was not detected in vitro in any cowpea cultivar. Lutein (124.6 mg/100 g) and all-trans-beta-carotene (92.6 mg/100 g) levels were highest in VOP2 and VOP1, respectively. Cowpea cultivars VOP3 and VOP4 showed potential to fulfil the daily requirements of essential amino acids. Thus, based on this information, cowpea (leaves) genotypes/cultivars can be selected and propagated for the further development of supplementary foods or functional food ingredients.