A Nigerian woman in Bwari Area Council, FCT, Abuja, Mrs Hannatu Musa, says more consumers have turned to buying soyabeans, widely known as ‘awara’ as a substitute for protein.

Musa, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Bwari, said since meat was no longer affordable, some consumers had resorted to the use of `awara’ as a substitute.

NAN reports that ‘awara’ is the Hausa version of tofu, a meal made of soybean curds. Soya-beans are a richly healthy food; it contain several vitamins and is low in carbohydrates.

It is a common delicacy in the northern region, produced in block form and eaten as a snack.

Musa said that the snack had significant popularity in the north due to its health benefits and delectable taste.

She said that despite its nutritional value, the preparation of ‘awara’ was time-consuming and challenging, which was the reason people opted for ready-made.

Madam Christine Douglas, one of the consumers of the snack, told NAN that she had never eaten it until she came to live in Abuja five years ago.

She said that her neighbour, who was a northerner, introduced her to eating it, and she has since taken a queue to buy it.

“I have introduced other women to it; it is very delicious if well prepared.

“I like the way it is usually garnished; it goes well with rice, and now that meat is expensive, I use it to balance my diet,’’ she said.

Dr Kemi Adegoke-Abraham, a nutritionist, said that the food, made from soybeans, has a high vitamin content and low carbohydrates.

According to her, ‘awara’ is a good choice for those monitoring carbohydrate intakes.

“In addition, its low glycemic index in soybeans ensures stable blood sugar levels, rendering it a suitable option for individuals with diabetes.

“You know, soyabeans also proffers a substantial dietary fibre content and according to some research, soybeans reduces the risk of breast cancer,” she said. (NAN)