UMS Students Create Iron-Rich Jelly for Pregnant Women

Five students from the Faculty of Health Sciences (FIK) at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) have successfully created iron-rich jelly candy. This innovation is part of the 2024 Ormawa Research and Community Service Program (PPO).

The five students, Miftahul Arifin, Adelia Triana Putri, Nabila Luthfi Putri Salsabila, Tsannina Saida Lathifa, and Dwi Yulianti, developed the jelly candy under the guidance of faculty advisor Fitriana Mustikaningrum, S.Gz., M.Sc., Ph.D.

Miftahul Arifin, the leader of the FIK UMS PPO Team, stated that the jelly candy offers a healthier alternative compared to regular jelly candies. It is made with low-calorie sugar, making it safe for pregnant women. “It can minimize the risk of premature birth,” Arifin said on Monday (2/12/2024).

Arifin explained that the idea for creating this candy was inspired by a Ministry of Health report highlighting that pregnant women are often unaware of the importance of meeting their iron needs. In 2019, anemia prevalence in developing countries was notably high, with a 48.9% increase compared to the previous year.

“A 2018 study showed that anemia occurs more frequently in women because of conditions like menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth,” he explained.

The jelly candy variants produced by FIK UMS students. UMS Public Relations

The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenkes RI), Arifin added, emphasized that untreated anemia in pregnant women could lead to fatal consequences, including an increased risk of bleeding during childbirth, which can endanger both mother and baby.

Over two months, the team conducted extensive research to develop the jelly candy. Laboratory tests revealed that each piece of the jelly candy contains 6.229 milligrams of iron, which is considered sufficient to meet the daily iron requirements of pregnant women.

They also conducted public trials to gauge community acceptance of the product. The results showed that the jelly candy was well-received due to its unique flavor variations, texture, and superior nutritional content compared to common pregnancy supplements. “The chewy texture and attractive colors of the jelly candy also serve as a unique appeal for consumers,” Arifin said.

Sakin (20), one of the respondents who tried the jelly candy, admitted to liking it. According to her, the candy had a delicious taste and beautiful colors. “The candy tastes great, has a chewy texture, and its colors are attractive,” Sakin remarked.

This innovation is expected to contribute to preventing anemia in pregnant women. The product also serves as a practical and appealing solution for pregnant women to meet their daily iron needs.

Writer: Fika

Translator: Rizal

Editor: Gede

Source: News UMS