TITLE:
Processing Properties, Rheological Characteristics, and Nutritional Composition of the Main Game Meats and Frogs Consumed in Benin
AUTHORS:
Rogatien Agossa Tohozin, Polycarpe Ulbad Tougan, Rebecca A. R. Assa Epse Yao
KEYWORDS:
Benin, Characterization, Macronutrients, Technological Properties, Unconventional Meat
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.13 No.11,
November
5,
2025
ABSTRACT: Meat from unconventional animal resources such as bushmeat, amphibians, reptiles, rodents, and wild birds represents an important part of the food system components in Benin. This study aimed to assess the processing properties, rheological characteristics, and nutritional value of the main game meats and frogs consumed in Benin. To this end, carcasses of 8 deer, 10 grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus), 10 monitor lizard (Varanus exanthematicus), 10 partridge, and 36 frog (Hoplobatracus occipitalis) were aseptically sampled and analysed according to the procedure of AOAC procedures. Individual animals were treated as independent experimental units. The results showed that deer and grasscutter meats were rich in protein (21.5 - 22.9 g/100g), low in fat (2.2 - 2.8 g/100g), and exhibited strong water-holding capacity (25% - 34%) with intense red coloration, reflecting their suitability as lean red meats with stable technological properties. Frog and partridge meats were less rich in fat (0.9 g/100g to 1.8 g/100g) and pale, with high protein content (18.6 - 23.3 g/100g) but lower water-holding capacity. Monitor lizard meat displayed an intermediate profile, combining high protein (22.9 g/100g), moderate fat (2.9 g/100g), and distinctive yellow index. Variations in drip and cooking losses, color stability, and pH among species underscored species-specific differences in meat functionality and processing behavior. Overall, these unconventional and game meats offer diverse nutritional and technological attributes, providing opportunities for dietary diversification and enhancing food security in Benin and in West Africa.