In West Africa, particularly here in Nigeria, we consume kpomo, also known as cow skin or ponmo, more than any other beef part. Cow hides provide the primary source of kpomo, which we Nigerians make edible through boiling, burning, or smoking. We sha love kpomo because it’s affordable, accessible, and versatile.
As Nigerians, we usually enjoy kpomo in various forms including
- Serving it as a side dish to complement staple foods like jollof-rice, garri, or fufu.
- Snacking on it with spices and herbs like we snack on ‘fish pieeeeeeee”
- We also use it as a seasoning ingredient in soups, stews, and sauces.
Across social classes and geographical boundaries, Nigerians consume kpomo in:
- Street food stalls
- Local markets
- Restaurants
- Eateries
- Homes
Several factors contribute to its prevalence to include;
- Nigerians value kpomo culturally as an essential ingredient in their diet.
- It provides an affordable protein source.
- It’s easy to incorporate into various dishes.
From urban centers to rural areas, we however, would find a way to widely include it in our cuisine, despite growing concerns about its nutritional value and health implications.
Nutritional Value
A 100g serving of boiled, thick cow skin contains:
– 224.65kcal of energy
– 6.80g of carbohydrate
– 43.9g of water
– 46.9g of protein
– 1.09g of fat
– 0.02g of fiber
It also has small amounts of essential micronutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.
Consider my course on Healthy Lifestyle. You can access the course using this link.
Kpomo: Limitations and Health Concerns
Although it contains collagen, a non-essential amino acid, it lacks essential amino acids. Moreover, the processing method – burning – raises health concerns. Toxic substances like Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are released, increasing cancer risk.
Why Ban Kpomo Consumption?
Given the health risks, I support the government’s proposal to ban the consumption. Instead, Nigeria can explore alternative uses for cow skin, such as shoe and bag production, generating revenue.
Healthier Alternatives to Kpomo
Consider these nutritious protein sources:
- Fish
- Local chicken
- Turkey
- Quails
Conclusion
While kpomo may contain some nutrients, they are non-essential. Prioritize your health and explore healthier options.