Utilization of Moringa Leaf Candy for Stunting Reduction and Nutritional-Rich Snack in Rural Communities

Abstract

Chronic malnutrition affects growth and long-term health, resulting in stunting, which affects 21.6% of Indonesian children. The leaves of Moringa oleifera offer a potent source of essential nutrients (protein, vitamins, calcium, and iron) that are relevant to preventing stunting. This community service project aimed to create and assess a basic, home-processable Moringa candy as a functional snack to improve nutritional intake. The project involved pregnant women and mothers of toddlers from the village’s Integrated Health Posts (Posyandu). This study used qualitative description, surveys, and coordination were part of the preparation process; training on stunting, the benefits of Moringa, and practical candy-making that involved the mother of a toddler and a pregnant woman at Kuwayuhan village. The findings revealed that 45% of participants were only moderately familiar with the advantages of Moringa, as prior knowledge. Additionally, at the end, participants’ knowledge was increased significantly to 52.4% who understood candy making, and 47.6% implied fairly. The sensory evaluation was highly positive: 85.7% thought the aroma acceptable, 81% rated the taste delicious, 100% approved the chewy of the texture. Moreover, the workshop was constant and even. It effectively increased participants’ knowledge about Moringa and its processing. This nutrient-dense candy offers a practical, locally adaptable snack option to contribute to dietary diversification and stunting prevention efforts, particularly for populations that were in more susceptible environments with low resources.