Elie FOKOU · UY1 Research Hub

BCH

Elie FOKOU

Maître de Conférences

98Publ.

BCHDept.

FSFaculty

Institution: University of Yaoundé I
Faculty
Department

Scientific activity

Publication summary

Period: 1989–2026
Open access: 42
Types: 4
Publ.: 98

Journal Article · 89
Other · 6
Preprint · 2
Book Chapter · 1

Recurring keywords

biology
food science

Researcher profile

Biography

Faculty researcher at the University of Yaoundé I. Grade: Maître de Conférences.

Scientific publications

Publications

2026

2026Journal articleOpen access
Factors associated with malnutrition among private versus public nursery school children in Kumba, Cameroon
Aristide Guillaume Silapeux Kamda, Gillian N. Asoba, Dieudonne Nebane, Blanche V. Eyabi, Olivia A. Anagim, Bolda E. Maralossou and 1 more
World Nutrition
Background The prevalence of malnutrition among children in Cameroon remains high, particularly among those residing in rural areas. The present examines young children in an urban area, Kumba, in the South-West Region of Cameroon. Objective The aim of this study was to assess in a comparative manner the factors associated with malnutrition among public and private nursery school children in Kumba. Methods A cross-sectional quantitative survey design was conducted among 312 children aged 3-5 years from 6 public and private nursery schools and their caregivers. Children were selected via a multistage random sampling technique, and their weight and height were measured using the WHO Anthro software to determine levels of underweight, stunting, wasting, overweight, and the Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure (CIAF). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 to accommodate a multistage cluster design, employing Pearson’s Chi-square tests for categorical variables, Student’s t-tests for continuous variables, and forced-entry binary logistic regression to identify significant socio-economic, demographic, and school-type determinants of malnutrition at p < 0.05. Results The overall prevalence of wasting, stunting and overweight among the children was 6.7%, 14.1% and 13.7%, respectively, with a CIAF of 19.5%. Wasting and stunting were more prevalent in public schools. Overweight prevalence was higher in private schools. Children attending public schools were 6.99 times more likely to be stunted than those attending private schools [AOR, 6.99; 95% CI, 2.24-21.86]. Home-packed lunch boxes lowered odds of wasting [AOR, 0.044; 95% CI, 0.011-0.17] and stunting [AOR, 0.085; 95% CI, 0.02-0.24]. Conclusion Children from socioeconomically advantaged backgrounds, whose families could afford private education and packing school lunch boxes, had lower risks for stunting and wasting. Overweight was less prevalent among public school children. Parents across both public and private nursery schools must be educated on essential child nutrition practices to curb malnutrition.
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2025

2025Journal article
Biochemical and Hematological Markers of Iron Status of the Populations in the Lekie Division of Cameroon
Guy Noah, Élie Fokou, Fadimatou BEBBE, Eposi C. Haddison, Gilbert Ghislain Mbassi Manga, Raoul Kemzeu and 2 more
International Journal Of Nutrition
Iron deficiency is a major public health problem worldwide. It affects a significant proportion of the population, and is responsible for around 50% of anemia cases worldwide. Cameroon in general and Lekie Division in particular, is very highlyaffected by this problem. However, early detection of the problem can prevent the fatalities associated to it. The objective of this study was to provide up-to-date, detailed data on the markers of iron status in these populations, so that treatment can be better targeted. A two-month cross-sectional study was conducted in the Lekie Division in collaboration with local health centres in both urban and rural areas. The study sample consisted of 361 participants of all age groups and sexes. A questionnaire was issued to obtain information of the participants socio-demographic status, then 3 to 5ml of blood were collected and a number of markers of the participants iron status were studied. Of all the hematological markers studied, hemoglobin concentration in the study population was below normal in both men and women. Biochemical markers were good for all socio-demographic parameters. The mean values of biochemical and hematological markers in the population of the Lekie Division were good for all socio-demographic parameters, with the exception of hemoglobin concentration, which remains critical, requiring particular attention in this locality, but above all urgent intervention lest the situation aggravates further.
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2024

2024Book chapterOpen access
Assessment of Antimicrobial Usage and Residues in Poultry Tissues and Eggs from Smallholder Poultry Farmers in Cameroon
Fabrice De Paul Tatfo Keutchatang, Gabriel Medoua Nama, Germain Kansci, Élie Fokou
Veterinary medicine and science
There is reasonable doubt about the accuracy of veterinary drug use in Cameroon poultry production. To enable better use of antimicrobials, it is important to recognize patterns of prescribing behavior, such as which antimicrobials are being prescribed for which diseases. Therefore, smallholder poultry farmers from Cameroon were interviewed regarding their use of antimicrobials. In addition, poultry feed samples from the same poultry farms were screened for the detection of antimicrobials. Tissues (muscle, liver, and gizzard) from 45-day-old broilers and fresh eggs from layers were sampled and analyzed for antimicrobials. Antimicrobials were detected in poultry feed above the maximum limit for residues as well as in broiler tissues and layer eggs. The results of the interviews showed that there are shortcomings in the implementation of biosecurity measures by farmers, as well as poor use of antimicrobials, resulting in the occurrence of diseases on farms and the presence of antimicrobials in poultry feed, tissues, and eggs. Such results constitute a significant and unacceptable deviation from the dynamics of poultry production. To apply the One Health perspective to the poultry production industry in Cameroon, the current veterinary drug use practices and biosecurity measures must be revised, properly applied, and monitored for consistent use.
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2023

2023Journal articleOpen access
Evaluation of Burns Wound Healing Properties of Different Varieties of Honey from Cameroun
Désiré Akaba, T. F. Atemkeng, B. B. Malep Mayama, I. L. Moutila, Wamba, Mercy Bih Loh Achu and 3 more
Journal of Applied Life Sciences International
Introduction: The use of local natural products, such as honey, is empirically prescribed in the treatment of burns and several medical conditions. Aim: This was conducted to evaluate the burn wound healing activity of three types of local types of honey on rats. Materials and Methods: This was a comparative experimental study held at the Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Yaoundé I. We used 3 varieties of honey designated by their cities of origin: Ngaoundal, Okuh, and Yaounde. Brulex® (Zinc Oxide) was our reference medicine against burns. Male rats of the Wistar strain have served as animal material on which the burns were performed. There were 36 individuals divided into 4 groups of 9 rats per batch for treatment with reference medicine and 3 honey samples. We realized experimental burns under general anesthesia by a heated mass. The surface areas were calculated using Autodesk AutoCAD 2014® software. The photos were taken using an XTIGI V10® telephone. At the various dates selected, the wound surfaces calculated for each batch were expressed in the form of the mean ± standard deviation.  Results: There wa no significant variation in pH and free acidity. Okuh honey is the most acidic (pH 5.73 ± 0.682). Concerning the Brix degree, the least sweet honey is that of Okuh (73.94 ± 0.115). There is a significant difference in the Brix degree between these three samples (p=0.00000009; Table 1). The richest honey in metabolites was that of Ngaoundal, with polyphenols of 323.79±53.57 mEq/kg, flavonoids of 47.45±3.84 mEq/kg and total flavonols of 21 .82±0.90 mEq/kg. Concerning the evolution of the healing process, the group of rats treated with Brulex® showed the largest injured surfaces on day 0 (8.83 ± 2.34 cm2), the least extensive being those of the Okuh group (6.83 ± 0.66 cm2). On the 24th day, the smallest areas were in order those of the Ngaoundal, Yaounde, and Okuh lots. While the rats in the Brulex® and negative control lots were not yet completely cured. On histology sections, Okuh, Yaoundé, and Ngaoundal groups had slight fibrosis, hypervascularization and an abundance of immune cells. Conclusion: The three honey type seem effective in burn wound care and can be suggested.
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2022

2022Journal articleOpen access
Combined education course on nutrition, hand-washing and dental care in primary schools in Yaoundé, Cameroon
Philomina Fankam Yamgai, Guy Bertrand Pouokam, Brice Ulrich Saha Foudjo, Francesca Mazzanti, Joel Taguemkam Sando, Chi Samuel and 3 more
Journal of Global Health Reports
Background Poor nutritional habits and related hygiene and sanitation practices impair food and nutrition security, and increase the risk of foodborne diseases and related school absenteeism. While the WASH program promoted by the UNICEF boosts water, sanitation, and hygiene, only a few studies thus far encouraged healthy eating habits and safe and nutritious meals at school. This study aimed at combining education of schoolchildren on nutrition and hygiene (nutrition knowledge, attitudes, practices; food choices; nutrient sources; dental care; handwashing), and at boosting the engagement of parents and teachers in the promotion of nutrition-related behaviors conducive to health and well-being. Methods Four primary schools in different Yaoundé Urban Councils and 71 schoolchildren aged 7-12 years enrolled in the study. In this paper we report on the i) administrative and ethical clearance, ii) sensitisation and demonstration activities, iii) donation of WASH equipment, disposable materials for hand and teeth hygiene, toolkit policy, and guidebook, iv) baseline assessment by structured questionnaire, v) combined course (1 hour/week, 6 weeks), and vi) measured impact. Scores were analysed using paired z- and t-tests with SPSS 23.0 for windows. Results In the four schools, handwashing showed the best improvement. Older children benefited more from the whole course, while the improvement in younger children focused more on practices. The school that scored lowest at baseline obtained marked general improvement. Interestingly, general improvement in food choices coupled with persistent difficulty in recognising nutrient sources. Although sociocultural and socioeconomic parameters were not included in the questionnaire, these emerged as possible modifiers. Despite limited hours of direct training and limited resources invested, this short-term intervention significantly changed habits of children and the school community. Availability of hand and teeth hygiene materials facilitated and motivated the proactivity of the school community to boost good nutrition and hygiene practices sustainably. Conclusions Preventive medicine is a balance of awareness and affordability. Having this in mind, more coordinated efforts (WASH, food safety, food security) will enforce proper nutrition and hygiene of children at school in the different Cameroonian sociocultural and socioeconomic settings.
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2021

2021Journal article
Physical Characteristics and the Effect of Boiling and Fermentation on the Nutritional Value of &lt;i&gt;Telfairia occidentalis&lt;/i&gt; Seeds
Mercy Bih Loh Achu, Ruth Viviane Djuikwo, Stéphane Ghomsi Tamo, Christiane Laure Maptouom Fotso, Michelle Carole Djouhou Fowe, Élie Fokou
Journal of Agricultural Chemistry and Environment
This work evaluates some physical parameters (the weight, length, diameter of fruits and seeds, number of seeds per fruit) and the effect of boiling and fermentation on the nutritional value of Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin) seeds. Firstly, a survey was done in the city of Yaounde on the different treatments applied to the seeds before cooking. From the results of the survey, the seeds were divided into three groups: raw, boiled and fermented. The moisture, lipid, protein, fibre, carbohydrate and ash contents were analysed using AOAC methods and minerals by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results showed that T. occidentalis fruit averagely weighed 6.35 kg and contained about 90 seeds. The decorticated seeds had an ovoid shape, 3.70 cm long and weighed 8.91 g. Boiling led to an increase in lipid (16.29% - 31.44%) and carbohydrate (19.20% - 21.8%) but a decrease in protein (54.06% - 34.17%) contents. Fermentation increased the crude fibre (0.70% - 1.1%) but decreased the ash content (4.07% - 3.14% DM). Boiled seeds had higher calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium, while fermented seeds had higher zinc levels. Boiling proved better in preserving most of the seed nutrients. These seeds could be used to prevent some mineral deficiencies and their high proteins suggest their potential for the formulation of infant foods.
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2020

2020Journal article
AFLATOXINS CONTAMINATION IN MAIZE- BASED FOOD AND HUMAN HEALTH IMPLICATION IN BAFIA (CENTRE-CAMEROON)
Evelyne Nguegwouo, Emmanuel Ediage Njumbe, Patrick Berka Njobeh, Gabriel Nama Medoua, Z. Ngoko, Martin Fotso and 3 more
International Journal of Agriculture and Environmental Research
Background: In sub-Saharan Africa and particularly in Cameroon, several research has shown the presence of aflatoxins (AFs) in food intended to human consumption. The evaluation of the health risk associated with consumption of contaminated foods is needed to know the sanitary statute of the population.
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2020Journal article
Albumin and Globulin Fractions from Black Bean Seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) used in the Management of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in the West Region of Cameroon have Antisickling and Antioxidant Properties
Kenmoe LR, Kotue TC, K. Vijaya Chandra, Djouhou FM, Pieme AC, Germain Kansci and 2 more
Journal of Biotechnology and Biomedicine
Background: Peptides have shown anti-sickling effect and are able to reduce oxidative stress, thus contributing to the management of sickle cell disease. Objectives: The present study was undertaken to characterize and to assess the antisickling and antioxidant properties of albumins and globulins fractions from black bean seed (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) used to manage sickle cell disease in West Region of Cameroon. Methods: NaCl 5% (1:10 w/v) and dialysis were used for extracting albumins and globulins respectively. The concentration of proteins was determined by the Bradford method. Molecular size was determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). In vitro antisickling properties, investigate was carried up using microscopic enumeration. Membrane stability effect and antioxidant potentials were determined using colorimetric method. Results: In non-reducing buffer showed both albumin and globulin in native form, had the main proteins with dense band of about 130 and 37 kDa. Antisickling tests revealed the best inhibition (79.15 ± 3%) and reversibility (73.49 ± 6%) rates with globulin fraction at 3.82 mg/ml. Hemolysis decreased significantly with albumin and globulin fractions at different concentrations showing the stability effect on the membranes of erythrocytes. However the concentration of globulin at 3.82 mg/ml has shown the best activity (from 100 to 4.62%). The FRAP test has shown that the proteins extracted from black bean seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) have a global antioxidant power of 48.38 ± 5 mg FeII/100g (albumin fraction) and 7.26 ± 4 mg Fell/100g (globulin fraction). The value obtained from the albumin fraction was significantly lower (p<0.05) than that obtained with gallic acid used as standard. However, the albumin fraction showed better anti-free radical activity on •DPPH (IC50 =7.37 ± 0.2 mg/ml) and the hydroxyl radical (IC50 = 5.96 ± 0.1 mg/ml) than the globulin fraction (IC50 =13.56 ± 0.8 mg/ml for the •DPPH radical and 13.41 ± 2 mg/ml for the •OH radical. Conclusion: Albumins and globulins from black bean seeds used to manage sickle cell disease in the west region of Cameroon have antisickling, anti-hemolytic and antioxidant properties. These results may justify the use of black bean seeds by sickle cell patients.
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2019

2019Journal articleOpen access
Bioethanol potential of raw and hydrothermally pretreated banana bulbs biomass in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation process with Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Florent Awedem Wobiwo, Tanmay Chaturvedi, Maurice Boda, Élie Fokou, Thomas Happi Emaga, Iwona Cybulska and 3 more
Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery
Residual banana bulbs (RBB) were characterized and assessed as a potential starch and cellulose-based feedstock for bioethanol production. To facilitate the enzymatic digestibility, hydrothermal pretreatment was performed on RBB prior to simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) with Saccharomyces cerevisiae . Composition of RBB was similar to traditional starch and cellulose-based feedstocks with high glucan (60 g/100 gDM) and relatively low lignin content (7 g/100 gDM). Both amylase and cellulase were needed to efficiently hydrolyze RBB. The highest ethanol yield (310 kg EtOH/ton_DM_RBB, 93% of theoretical production based on total available glucose) was obtained with non-pretreated RBB. SSF can be carried out at lower RBB concentrations. Hydrothermal pretreatment affected negatively the bioethanol potential due to the loss of fermentable carbohydrates. In a case study of an African leading producer of bananas and plantains (Cameroon), the energy derived from bioethanol was 80 GWh ethanol/year and corresponded to 1.6% of the annual transportation requirement. This study shows that RBB is a promising alternative feedstock for bioethanol production.
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2013

2013Journal article
ATR-FTIR CHARACTERIZATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF AVOCADO OILS FROM FIVE CAMEROON CULTIVARS EXTRACTED WITH A FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESS
Iuliana Lazăr, Brice Ulrich Saha Foudjo, Germain Kansci, Gabriel Lazăr, Élie Fokou, François‐Xavier Etoa
Environmental Engineering and Management Journal
Avocado post-harvest losses and cultivar-oriented trade are relevant issues in Cameroon that affect producers and retailers incomes.Identifying specific chemical characteristics of avocado oils would give an added value to underutilized species.Five avocado varieties, Booth 7, Booth 8, Collinson, Hickson and Lula, were subjected to aqueous extraction and the Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transformed Infrared spectrometry coupled with chemometrics (ATR-FTIR) profile of their extracted oils was analyzed to express their variability in terms of structural composition.The results showed that the oils have characteristic peaks within the region 900 to 1300 cm -1 that could be exploited in food control: 1167 cm -1 for Booth 7, 1164 cm -1 for Booth 8, 1157 cm -1 for Collinson, 1162 cm -1 for Hickson, 1164 cm -1 for Lula and 1165 cm -1 for the commercial oil which was used to compare.Principal Component Analysis used to classify the avocado oils based on their degree of unsaturation and their carboxyl ester group show similarity between Booth 7 and Collinson oil, Booth 8 and Hickson oil while Lula oil is totally different.This means that oils in the same cluster could be used for the same purpose in industries on chemical bases and identify during adulteration control on spectroscopic bases.Thus, ATR-FTIR spectrometry coupled with chemometrics have shown that neglected and appreciated avocados varieties share some similar properties that could be exploited by industries.
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2012

2012Journal article
MULTI-RESPONSE OPTIMIZATION OF AQUEOUS OIL EXTRACTION FROM FIVE VARIETIES OF CAMEROON-GROWN AVOCADOS
Brice Ulrich Saha Foudjo, Germain Kansci, Élie Fokou, Iuliana Lazăr, Pierre-Yves Pontalier, François‐Xavier Etoa
Environmental Engineering and Management Journal
International audience
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2011

2011Journal article
Dietary intake, zincemia and cupremia of Cameroonian schoolchildren of Ngali II
Roger Ponka, Élie Fokou
International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition
The present study is aimed at investigating the dietary intake, zincemia and cupremia of Cameroonian schoolchildren of Ngali II. A total of 211 and 200 schoolchildren aged between 7 and 18 years were recruited during the rainy season and dry season, respectively. Information on dietary intake was collected using 7-day measured food diaries. The zincemia and cupremia of the subjects were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The energy, nutrient intakes, zincemia and cupremia obtained were compared with reference values. The energy and most nutrient intakes of these schoolchildren were higher in the rainy season than in the dry season. Energy and nutrient intakes were generally insufficient, when compared with reference values in children except zinc, iron, magnesium and vitamin E intakes and in adolescents (except magnesium and vitamin E intakes). The zincemia and cupremia of the subjects were low when compared with standard values.
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2011Other
Effect of intermittent frying on tocopherols, lipid content and lipid oxidation during plantain chips production with soybean oil
O. R. K. Achu, Germain Kansci, Élie Fokou, Claude Génot
HAL (Le Centre pour la Communication Scientifique Directe)
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2010

2010Other
EFFECT OF RIPENING ON TOTAL POLYPHENOL CONTENTS OF MUSA HYBRIDS AND CULTIVARS GROWN IN CAMEROON
Gérard Ngoh Newilah, Pierre Brat, Kodjo Tomekpé, Philipp Alter, Élie Fokou, François‐Xavier Etoa
Acta Horticulturae
ISHS IV International Symposium on Banana: International Conference on Banana and Plantain in Africa: Harnessing International Partnerships to Increase Research Impact EFFECT OF RIPENING ON TOTAL POLYPHENOL CONTENTS OF MUSA HYBRIDS AND CULTIVARS GROWN IN CAMEROON
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2009

2009Journal articleOpen access
Carotenoid contents during ripening of banana hybrids and cultivars grown in Cameroon
Gérard Ngoh Newilah, Claudie Dhuique‐Mayer, Juan Alfredo Rojas-Gonzalez, Kodjo Tomekpé, Élie Fokou, F. X. Etoa
Fruits
Introduction. Bananas and plantains (Musa spp.) are staple foods in Cameroon and surrounding countries. Strategies based on the utilization of cultural and locally consumed foods are essential for the identification of solutions for the reduction of micronutrient malnutrition. Materials and methods. To assess the nutritional content of some varieties in order to assist the selection of new Musa hybrids, the carotenoid contents of 19 Musa cultivars and hybrids from the CARBAP (Douala, Cameroon) germplasm were determined at three ripening stages. Frozen pulps were analyzed for their β-carotene, α-carotene and lutein contents using the HPLC method. The retinol activity equivalents (RAE)·100 g–1 fresh weight were calculated for four representative Musa types. Results and discussion. Significant differences were observed between Musa cultivars according to their genotype. Plantain type (Mbouroukou n°1) and Musa hybrid (CRBP 755) exhibited the highest levels of RAE [(148 and 70) RAE·100 g–1] compared with dessert bananas (16 RAE·100 g–1). During ripening, the concentrations of these carotenoids increased or decreased significantly (α = 0.05%) according to the Musa type analyzed. The high β- and α-carotene as well as lutein contents of these Musa sp. could contribute to the nutritional status of people consuming these banana varieties in West and Central Africa and enhance their use in Musa breeding programs.
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2008

2008Journal article
Alimentation et statut en deux micronutriments antioxydants (zinc et vitamine C) de quelques patients camerounais hypertendus
Élie Fokou, Roger Ponka, Aurélie Sielinou-Tchegnimba, Blackett Ngu, Félicité Mbiapo Tchouanguep
Nutrition Clinique et Métabolisme
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2008Journal article
Atherogenicity of Cucumeropsis mannii and Cucumis sativus oils from Cameroon
Mercy Bih Loh Achu, Élie Fokou, Clergé Tchiégang, Martin Fotso, Félicité Mbiapo Tchouanguep
African Journal of Food Science
The atherogenicity of Cucumeropsis mannii and Cucumis sativus oils was compared to that of corn oil and palm oil. Female wistar albino rats of 6 weeks old weighing 58 – 65 g were randomly assigned to one of four diet groups: C. mannii and C. sativus oils (test diets) and corn and palm oil (control diets). There was weight gain in all the groups amounting to 128.65% (palm oil), 132.75% (C. mannii), 140.8% (C. sativus) and 153.45 (corn oil) with no significant difference. The weights of the livers ranged from 4.22 (palm oil) to 5.17 g (corn oil), ratio of weights of liver to that of rat, from 0.029 - 0.034 and percentage weight gain from 128.65 (palm oil) to 153.45% (corn oil). There was no significant difference in the values. For the atherogenic parameters measured, the triglyceride level ranged from 73 (palm oil) to 79.4 (C. sativus oil) with no significant difference. Total cholesterol levels ranged from 49.6 (corn oil) to 64.2 mg/dl (C. sativus oil) with significantly lower values in the corn oil group but similar values in the rest of the groups. HDL ranged from 18.94 (C. mannii oil) to 32.8 (palm oil) which was significantly high, LDL from 6.2 (palm oil) to 25.06 mg/dl (C. mannii oil) and atherogenic ratio (AR) from 0.2 (palm oil) to 1.61 (C. mannii) which was significantly high. The levels of these atherogenic parameters are far below the borderline level for oils to cause atherosclerosis, indicating that they could be potential good edible oils for reducing cardiovascular illnesses. Keywords: Atherogenicity, oils, Cucumeropsis mannii, Cucumis sativus.
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2007

2007Journal articleOpen access
Composition en caroténoïdes, vitamines A et E des aliments consommés dans une zone de paludisme endémique au Cameroun (Ngali II)
Roger Ponka, Élie Fokou, E Rock, M. Fotso, Jacob Souopgui, Rose G. F. Leke and 1 more
Sciences des Aliments
Malaria remains the first cause of morbidity and mortality in Cameroon. The aim of this study is to determine carotenoïds, vitamin A and vitamin E contents in dishes consumed by Cameroonians living in a rural area which is a malaria endemic zone, called Ngali II. The dishes consumed by the people of this area are sauce prepared from several green leafy vegetables, leguminous seeds and cucurbit seeds, tubers and plantains. The nutrient contents were determined by High Performance Liquid Chromatography. The results obtained are expressed in micrograms per 100 grams dry weight: α-caroten 0-6434.7; ß-caroten 0-15612.5; vitamin A 0-1442.4 and vitamin E 0-40776. The dishes of fourth group have higher nutrient contents: 3808.52; 8722.50; 1761.65 and 18048 micrograms per 100 grams dry weight respectively for α-caroten, ß-caroten, vitamin A and vitamin E. Therefore, higher consumption of dishes for this group is recommended to prevent various infections like malaria in Ngali II. © Lavoisier - La photocopie non autorisée est un délit.
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2006

2006Other
Chemical Characteristics and Fatty acid Composition of Cucurbitaceae Oils fron Cameroon
Mercy Bih Loh Achu, Élie Fokou, Clergé Tchiégang, Martin Fotso, M. F. Tchouanguep
This work analyses the acid, saponification, iodine and peroxide indices, and the fatty acid composition of five Cucurbitaceae (egusi) seed oils from different regions in Cameroon. These seeds are Cucumeropsis mannii (egusi melon), Cucurbita maxima (pumpkin), Cucurbita moschata (musk melon), Lagenaria siceraria (calabash) and Cucumis sativus ("Ibo"egusi). The results show that the saponification, iodine and peroxide indices are influenced by the regions while the acid index and percentage of impurity do not depend on the region of cultivation but on the specie. The values for the indices are as follows: The acid index ranges from 3 -10; iodine, 83 -114; saponification, 204 -231 and peroxide, 3 -8m.equiv.g of O 2 /g of oil. These values are within recommended levels for edible oils. These oils have 4 main fatty acids: Palmitic, stearic, oleic and linoleic acid, the most abundant being linoleic acid (48-69.13%). The fatty acid profile is C18:2 > C18:1 > C18:0 in all the samples, irrespective of the origin. Their chemical properties are similar to those of corn, cottonseed, sesame and sunflower seed oils. These results suggest that they can be good for table, cooking and frying oils and for making mayonnaise. The high linoleic acid level makes them good oils for the fight against cardiovascular illnesses.
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2005

2005Journal article
Composition of dishes consumed in Cameroon
Roger Ponka, Élie Fokou, Martin Fotso, Félicité Mbiapo Tchouanguep, Rose G. F. Leke, Jacob Souopgui and 1 more
International Journal of Food Science & Technology
Summary This study deals with determination of some of the mineral salts and phytate contents in the food consumed by inhabitants of Cameroon known as Ngali II, a rural area, which is a malaria endemic zone. The food consumed by the people of this area are light and thick sauces prepared from several green leafy vegetables, leguminous seeds and cucurbit seeds (egusi seeds), pastes prepared from leguminous seeds or egusi seeds complemented with different tubers and plantains. The mineral salt contents were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and phytate by spectrophotometric methods. The results are expressed in mg (100 g) −1 dry weight. Iron: 1.32–28.46, zinc: 2.0–7.28, copper: 0.13–1.09, magnesium: 24.5–369.8 and phytate: 9.08–1988.2. This study reveals that a high consumption of food rich in zinc will greatly reduce the high prevalence of malaria in Ngali II.
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2005Other
Le secteur de la transformation agroalimentaire à Yaoundé
Élie Fokou, Germain Kansci, Martin Fotso, Jean Tchango Tchango, Justin Fallo
Agritrop (Cirad)
- agriculture and rural development research
- political science
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2004

2004Journal article
Chemical composition and functional properties of flours of four cultivars of bambara groundnut ( Vigna subterranean L. Verdc)
Duplex Tchiaze Tchiotsa, Élie Fokou, Germain Kansci, Félicité Tchouanguep Mbiapo
Journal of the Cameroon academy of sciences
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2004Journal article
Nutrient Content and Organoleptic Quality of Traditional African Strain and Rhode Island Chickens and the Effect of Feed Rations
Germain Kansci, Eric Bogne Lele, Minette, Martin Fotso, Élie Fokou
Pectoral and thigh muscles of African strain and Rhode Island chickens were characterised for their contents in moisture, proteins, lipids and phospholipids. Water retention capacity of the muscles was measured and the influence of enriched cotton cake feed on the muscle quality of Rhode Island race chicken was evaluated. The chicken stocks and their muscles were similar in terms of their water contents (73.6 - 74.9 g/100g). The muscles of the both chicken stocks showed excellent water retention capacity (up to 69%). The Rhode Island race were however, richer in lipids (2.74 - 3.46 g/100g) and phospholipids (0.34 - 0.57 g/100g). Feeding with cotton cake-enriched rations increased the lipid content further. On the other hand, muscles of the African strain chicken were richer in proteins (22.5 - 24.3 g/100g) than those of the Rhode Island race (19.5 - 22.5 g/ 100g). The nutritional, organoleptic and technological qualities of the chicken muscles are discussed with respect to these characteristics. Cultural consumption habits could explain preference of African Strain Chicken muscles by the local population. Key Words: chicken, feed, lipids, water retention capacity, proteins, quality Journal of Food Technology in Africa Vol.9(1) 2004: 26-28
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1996

1996Journal article
Nutrient composition of the leaves and flowers ofColocasia esculenta and the fruits ofSolanum melongena
Aba Richard Ejoh, Félicité Tchouanguep Mbiapo, Élie Fokou
Plant Foods for Human Nutrition
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1995

1995Journal article
Nutritional Value of some Traditional Dishes Consumed in a Rural Area of the Extreme North of Cameroon
Félicité Tchouanguep Mbiapo, Clautilde Mofor Teugwa, Élie Fokou
Hunger and malnutrition are the principal health problems that greatly affect humanity. They are the principal causes of many diseases as well as high mortality especially in children.
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1993

1993Journal article
Mitogenic activity of hydrophobic fractions of proteose peptone from cows', ewes' and goats' milk measured with MARK 3 hybridoma culture
Abderrahmane Mati, Farrida Moulti-Mati, Jean‐Michel Girardet, Élie Fokou, Francine Belleville-Nabet, P Nabet and 1 more
Journal of Dairy Research
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1989

1989Journal article
In Vivo Assessment of the Nutritive Value of Proteins "in Situ" in the Leaves of Solanum nigrum L., Xanthosoma sp and Gnetum africanum L.
Élie Fokou, F. Domngang
The Indian Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics
There is a growing demand of food protein in the world and especially in developing countries where the prevalence of Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) is very high. The efficiency of animal food proteins in the management of PEM is well established. Unfortunately these foods are expensive and are consequently poorly consumed by poor people.
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2025Journal articleOpen access

Development and Comparative Evaluation of Two Polyherbal Nutraceuticals, BobyGuards A and B: Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant Potential, and Nutritional Value

Borelle Mafogang, Stéphane Zingue, Kotue Taptue Charles, Michelle Djouhou, Franck Armand Fozing Fomo, Roger Ponka and 1 more

Journal of Food Quality

Research in nutrigenomics highlights the ability of nutrients to modulate oxidative stress and reduce free radical production, playing a key role in chronic disease prevention and management, particularly cancer. Nutraceuticals, especially polyherbal blends, offer enhanced bioactivity due to synergistic interactions among phytochemical constituents. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activities, and nutritional value of two polyherbal nutraceutical formulations, BobyGuard A (BGA) and BobyGuard B (BGB). Formulations were prepared using Curcuma longa, Piper nigrum, Dioscorea bulbifera, Spirulina platensis, Adansonia digitata, and Brassica oleracea . Standardization included assessments of phytochemical profiles, organoleptic, and physicochemical characteristics. Proximate composition, vitamin C, and mineral contents were measured, and LC–MS/MS was employed for the tentative identification of bioactive compounds. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using DPPH, OH, FRAP, and TAC assays. Both formulations shared similar qualitative phytochemical profiles, with phenols and flavonoids consistently detected. Quantitatively, BGA showed significantly higher ( p < 0.05) levels of vitamin C, manganese, copper, sulfur, tannins, water and alcohol extractives, and total antioxidant capacity. Conversely, BGB exhibited higher protein, crude fiber, potassium, total phenols (6580.36 ± 238.10 mg GAE/100 g DM), flavonoids (1107.27 ± 9.74 mg QuE/100 g DM), carotenoids (403.52 ± 5.35 mg/100 g DM), and stronger antioxidant activities (OH: 86.03 ± 0.71%; DPPH: 91.09 ± 0.45%). LC–MS/MS identified 50 compounds in BGA and 53 in BGB, including curcumin, piperine, catechin, and pheophytin b. BGB’s superior antioxidant activity and richer phytochemical profile suggest stronger potential to mitigate oxidative stress and related cellular damage. In contrast, BGA’s elevated mineral content, particularly copper and manganese, may enhance enzymatic functions involved in metabolic and redox homeostasis. These findings highlight the distinct yet complementary therapeutic roles of both formulations, supporting their use in chronic disease prevention and management strategies.