UTILIZING LOCALLY PROCESSED REBON SHRIMP (MYSIS RELICTA) AS FUNCTIONAL FOOD TO ALLEVIATE ANEMIA IN PREGNANT WOMEN

Abstract

Chronic energy deficiency (CED) during pregnancy contributes to anemia, leading to maternal and fetal complications. This study aims to explore the potential of locally processed Rebon shrimp (Mysis Relicta) as functional food to mitigate anemia in pregnant women. We developed Levon Shrimp Senbei, a premixed flour combining wheat flour and kidney beans, as an intervention strategy. A randomized controlled laboratory experiment included three treatments: chocolate, almond, and original. Pregnant women from Pematang Monastery, Deli Serdang Regency, were part of a quasi-experimental study with pre- and post-intervention assessments. While Levon Shrimp Crackers with Chocolate and Almonds emerged as preferred recipes, further investigation is needed to assess their impact on anemia. Detailed statistical analyses underpin the results, with implications for enhancing maternal nutrition and fetal well-being.y