MAKING CATFISH AND MORINGA LEAF MEATBALLS (MORINGA OLEIFERA) AS A FUNCTIONAL FOOD INNOVATION TO PREVENT STUNTING IN CHILDREN

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effect of feeding catfish meatballs and moringa leaves on changes in the nutritional status of children aged 1–5 years who are undernourished or at risk of stunting. The study used a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach and was conducted at Posyandu clinics within the service area of the Sukaratu Community Health Center for approximately 2 months. The study sample consisted of 30 children selected using purposive sampling. Most of the participants were aged 3–5 years (60%) and were male (53.3%). Before the intervention, the average weight was 10.8±1.2

kg and height was 84.6±4.5 cm, with a weight-for-age Z-score of ?2.05±0.35 and height-for-age Z-score of ?2.18±0.40. After the intervention, the average weight increased to 11.6±1.3 kg and height to 86.1±4.7 cm, while the Z-score for weight-for-age increased to ?1.65±0.30 and the Z-score for height-for-age to ?1.95±0.38. A hedonic test indicated good product acceptance, with 90% of respondents stating they liked or really liked it. Observations and interviews also indicated that the product was readily accepted by children and increased their appetite. It was concluded that catfish meatballs and moringa leaves have the potential to serve as functional foods and alternative supplements to improve nutritional status and support the prevention of stunting.