Study of the Intervention Effect Using a Combination of Catfish and Moringa Leaf Flours in the Form of Sandwich Biscuit on the Biomarker Profile of Low-Protein Intake-Induced Malnourished Rats

Reaching over 21% in 2023, the stunting cases in Indonesia have been considered an alarming issue. Nutrient deficiencies in protein and minerals, as well as gut dysbiosis, might potentially be determinants, leading to the worsening condition. Supplementary food provision combining animal- and plant-based protein enriched with prebiotics and probiotics in the form of a ready-to-eat (RTE) sandwich biscuit is beneficial to alleviate stunting. This study is aimed at ensuring the standard quality, nutritional value, level of acceptance, and outcomes of the combination of the formula for stunting biomarkers in murine models (Rattus norvegicus). The research process encompassed product development, evaluation of product characteristics, compliance with the regulatory standards of food contaminants, nutritional content, hedonic tests, and preclinical testing on experimental animals. The findings implied that the use of catfish flour, isolated soy protein, and moringa leaf added with prebiotics and probiotics was classified as a high-protein and calcium-source product with diverse arrays of minerals. This product also fulfilled the requirements for product standards and food safety. The product met the panelists′ acceptance with an overall average score of over 3.50 in all parameters. In terms of its effects on malnutrition-induced rats, substituted biscuits were proven to increase body weight and BMI and significantly (p < 0.05) affect albumin levels, total protein, calcium, and fecal calprotectin value, especially the substituted biscuits added with prebiotic- or probiotic-based cream filling which tended to get more optimal results.