The diversity of traditional foods in Kisumu West District of Western Kenya was assessed with an aim to
identify the foods with a potential for complementary feeding. Leaves were the most consumed plant part
amongst vegetables, while a few fruits were consumed together with their seeds. Amaranthus cruentus L. was
found to be consumed as a leafy vegetable while another variety, Amaranthus hybridus L. was found to be
consumed as a grain. Four species of winged termites, a grasshopper, black ant and dagaa fish were also
identified. Twelve of the traditional foods were found to be associated with nutritional and health benefits as
perceived by the locals. Traditional food processing methods such as boiling, fermentation and sun drying were
identified. Thus exploitation of the species possessing nutrient, health and processing benefits needs to be
explored in complementary feeding.