Abstract
This study analysed the contents of thirty-six mineral and trace elements in teff (Eragrostis tef L.) grains. What is more, dietary intakes were calculated. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to assess mineral and trace element contents. Consequently, the appropriate Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) or adequate intake (AI), and provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) or provisional tolerable monthly intake (PTMI) values for adults were determined according to the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO) and Institute of Medicine (IOM) regulations. Teff is a significant contributor to RDAs and AIs for females in the following order: Mn > Cu > Zn ≥ Mg > Fe ≥ P and Ca. For males, teff contributes in the order, Mn > Cu > Fe > Zn ≥ P ≥ Mg > and Ca. The concentration of arsenic (65.9 µg/kg) in brown teff originating in Bolivia exceeded the average acceptable value set by Reg. No. 1881 of 6–50 µg/kg in cereals consumed in the EU. The PTWIs or PTMIs for Al, Cd, Sn and Hg were all under 7%, which is below the limits of toxic element intake related to the body weight of 65 kg for adult females and 80 kg for males, set by the FAO/WHO. Teff grains can be recommended as a valuable and safe source of minerals and trace elements.
Highlights
Value-added foods provide health benefits above normal nutrition
This study provided data on the minerals in white and brown teff grains that may be suitable as markers of essential, trace and risk elements
Teff grains are rich in manganese, copper, phosphorus, iron, manganese, calcium and zinc
Summary
Value-added foods provide health benefits above normal nutrition. Interest in the utilization of alternative grains in food production has been growing [1] due to consumers’ demand for food promoting health and well-being. Teff (Eragrostis tef L.), originating from Ethiopia, is commonly used in flat bread production [2]. Only scarce research has been conducted to examine teff’s potential and its rich nutritional benefits. Two types of teff are distinguished according to seed colour—white or brown—both belonging to the millet group [3,4]. Dutch markets have a focus on growing teff [5]. As only a small quantity of teff grown in Europe appears in local markets, most teff is still imported from Bolivia
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