What is the Nutritional Value of Garri per 100g and Are Garri per 100g Healthy for You?

Garri, also known as gari, is a popular West African staple food made from fermented and roasted cassava tubers. It is a staple food in Nigeria, Ghana, and many other African countries. In this article, we will discuss the nutritional value of garri per 100g and whether it is healthy for you.

First, let’s look at the macronutrients in 100g of garri. The macronutrients are the nutrients that provide energy to the body, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. In 100g of garri, there are approximately 78g of carbohydrates, 2g of protein, and 1g of fat. The majority of the calories in garri come from carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy.

In terms of vitamins and minerals, garri contains small amounts of vitamin C and B vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. Garri is also a good source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function.

It’s important to note that garri is made from cassava, which contains high levels of cyanogenic glycosides, a type of toxic compound that can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and even death if consumed in large amounts. To reduce these toxins, the cassava used to make garri is usually soaked and fermented before it is roasted, which helps to break down the cyanogenic glycosides.

So is garri healthy for you? The answer is yes and no. Garri is a good source of energy and contains some essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is also high in carbohydrates and low in protein and fat. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cyanogenic glycosides in garri and ensure that it is properly prepared to reduce the risk of toxicity.

In terms of diet, garri is best consumed in moderation, as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources. It is also important to consider the preparation method before consuming garri.

In conclusion, garri is a staple food in many West African countries, and it provides energy and some essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to be aware of the cyanogenic glycosides and ensure that it is properly prepared before consumption. Additionally, garri should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.