Title of article :
Phytonutrient Contents of Opuntia ficus indica L. Stem grown in Nigeria
Author/Authors :
Otun, Kabir O. Kwara State University - Department of Chemical, Geological and Physical Sciences, Organic/Natural Product Unit, Nigeria , Yekeen, Temitope A. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology - Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Industrial/Food Chemistry Unit, Nigeria , Ajibola, Temitope A. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology - Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Industrial/Food Chemistry Unit, Nigeria , Bello, Muibat O. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology - Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Industrial/Food Chemistry Unit, Nigeria
Abstract :
Opuntia ficus-indica L. stem grown in Nigeria was analyzed for some nutraceutical values. Proximate constituents were determined using standard AOAC methods, levels of mineral contents were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry and fatty acid profile was determined with the aid of Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Results revealed that O. indica was rich in crude protein, ash content and carbohydrate. The high amount of ash (25.08±0.00 mg/100g) revealed higher levels of magnesium, calcium and iron. Twenty five fatty acids were identified in the stem of O. indica, with saturated fatty acids constituting 35.69% and unsaturated fatty acids 60.66% of the total amount of fatty acids. The present study suggested that O. indica L. could serve as a good source of protein, energy as well as micronutrients and macronutrients for human health benefits.
Keywords :
Opuntia ficus , indica , Micronutrients , Macronutrients , Health benefits
Journal title :
Jordan Journal of Chemistry
Journal title :
Jordan Journal of Chemistry
