Cajanus cajan, commonly known as pigeon pea, is a legume with multiple applications in agriculture and nutrition. The present study highlights the crucial significance of utilizing Cajanus cajan pod protein concentrates (PPC) as an eco-friendly, renewable, and cost-effective solution for supplementing protein-deficient conditions in rural areas. Specifically, in regions facing challenges like Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM), including Marasmus and Kwashiorkor, these PPCs can offer a promising alternative to address nutritional deficiencies and promote sustainable dietary practices. The study also emphasizes the crucial role of Cajanus cajan in vegetable waste management, showcasing its potential to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the food industry. In-depth acute toxicity studies using Wistar rat as animal model have been conducted to ensure the safety of these protein concentrates as an alternative supplement. Biochemical parameter assessments provide valuable insights and potential health benefits of these pod protein concentrates. Moreover, the research investigates the protein efficiency ratio (PER) of Cajanus cajan pod protein concentrates, which provides information in their effectiveness in supporting growth and development in animal subjects. The PER results shed light on the efficiency and quality of protein utilization, making it an essential factor for evaluating their suitability as a supplement alternative.
Overall, this comprehensive exploration establishes Cajanus cajan pod protein concentrates as a promising solution for sustainable supplement sourcing, vegetable waste management, and advancing eco-conscious practices in the food industry.”