Edukasi Partisipatif Pemberian MP-ASI Berbasis Protein Hewani dan Nabati untuk Meningkatkan Pengetahuan Ibu Balita Di Kota Palembang Participatory Education on Complementary Feeding (MP-ASI) Based on Animal and Plant Proteins to Improve Maternal Knowledg

Abstract

The toddler period is an important stage for child growth and development; therefore, adequate nutritional needs through appropriate complementary feeding (complementary foods for breastfed infants/young children) need to be ensured. One of the challenges in complementary feeding practices is the limited variety of protein sources, particularly animal-source foods. This community service activity aimed to improve mothers’ knowledge regarding age-appropriate complementary feeding through the utilization of locally available animal and plant protein sources. The activity was conducted on June 14, 2026, at Deyeri/Deri Independent Midwife Practice (TPMB), Tuan Kentang Village, Jakabaring District, Palembang City, involving 20 mothers with children aged 6–24 months and mothers preparing to initiate complementary feeding. The method used was community education with a participatory approach through interactive education, discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and card sorting activities focusing on age, food texture, feeding frequency, and food types. Evaluation was conducted using pre-test and post-test assessments. The results showed an increase in the mean knowledge score from 68.5 to 92.0, representing an increase of 23.5 points, with a statistically significant difference (p<0.001). Participants were also actively engaged in the card sorting activity and were able to identify appropriate types and characteristics of complementary foods according to the child’s age. Participatory education can improve mothers’ knowledge regarding complementary feeding based on animal and plant protein sources and the utilization of local foods.