Food frequency questionnaire and 24-hour recall methods were used to assess the general consumption of leafy vegetables and fruits within the Luo of northern Tanzania. The frequency questionnaire focused specifically on the consumption of Crotalaria brevidens, a leafy vegetable in a genus characterised by toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Leafy vegetables were the most frequently consumed food group, contributing 23% of the total frequency scores. Crotalaria brevidens contributed 1.7% of the total frequency scores although some individuals consume significantly more. High consumption frequency of Crotalaria sp. is negatively associated with the consumption of fruits, fats and oils, vitamin A animal sources and consumption of animal products. Edible portions of Crotalaria sp. contain toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids detected by thin layer chromatography. HPLC analysis showed that the plant contains high amounts of $ beta$-carotene. Quantification of the toxic alkaloids was not possible due to the low sensitivity of the methods used and low quantities present in the edible portions. Based on reported detection limits for the methods used a low and high estimated intake of toxic alkaloids was calculated and risk/benefit is assessed in relation to its nutrient content.

No description available.