Ten weaning-food mixtures were prepared by using cereals (rice and corn);Legumes (lentil and faba beans); karish cheese; yellow carrot and apple peel powder. Results showed that chemical composition (g/100g.on dry weight basis)of protein ranged from 15.2 to 17.8%, carbohydrates (74.47 - 78.16%);ash(2.6-2.87%);crude fibers(1.85-2.96%)lipids (1.7-1.9%) and total calories (386.2 - 391.1 k.cal.), respectively. The highest value of protein and ash content was found in prepared formula (2) containing kharish cheese (12%).
Minerals (mg/100g.on dry weight basis ) illustrate that Ca ranged between 120 and 310 mg.; P(108-246mg.); Mg (68-136mg.)and Fe (5.17-6.16 mg), respectively. Formula (2) showed the highest value of Ca and P, while formula (4) containing apple peels (12%) was the highest value of iron.
Prepared weaning-foods and local mixtures are considered as a good source of essential amino acids (EAA). It contained 120 – 199 mg/ 100g. on dry weight basis . The highest value was found in prepared formula (2)and the lower value was found in local mixtures. All formulas could cover the daily requirments of EAA for babies.
Total bacterial counts and phychrophilic bacteria of all formulae were in the permible limit, also free from coliform group; fungi; yeasts and safe for babies. Sensory evaluation of all formulas was highly acceptable and could be used for the first vital stage of childhood age and also breast feeding as asupplementary foods.