Effect of Soybean, Groundnut, Crayfish Inclusion, and Vitamin C-Fortified Formulated Food Blends on Biochemical, Hematological, Protein Quality, and Performance Indices in Weanling Albino Rats

This study evaluates the impact of maize-guinea corn-based weaning diets, fortified with soybean, groundnut, crayfish, and vitamin C, on the biochemical and hematological health of weanling rats. The results show significant improvements in protein quality, hematological indices (e.g., hemoglobin levels and RBC counts), and overall nutritional value, particularly in diets with crayfish and vitamin C. Fortification bridges the gap between locally formulated weaning diets and commercial products, making them a cost-effective alternative for improving infant nutrition in resource-constrained settings.