Evaluation of nutrient composition of African melon oilseed (Cucumeropsis mannii Naudin) for human nutrition

Abstract

Protein deficiency is prevalent among children and even adults in developing countries, especially in African countries and contributes to immune dysfunction, opportunistic infections and mortality. The goal of this project is to search for a cheaper and sustainable plant based source of protein that can be incorporated in the diet to prevent protein deficiency and other essential nutrients. African melon oil seeds (Cucumeropsis manniiNaudin) collected from Cameroon-West Africa were analyzed to determine their nutrient composition and whether they could serve as a sustainable source of protein, essential amino acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids for consumers in developing countries, especially in African countries. Nutrient data obtained shows that Cucumeropsis manniiNaudin has crude protein content of 31.4% and all essential amino acids. Total fat content in the seeds was 52.5% and the fatty acids that were in abundance were: linoleic (62.42%), oleic (15.90%), palmitic (10.27%), and stearic (10.26%). Mineral and vitamin analysis indicated that the seed contains important macro and micro minerals, and vitamins. Nutrient composition shows that Cucumeropsis mannii Naudin is a rich source of protein, essential amino acids, essential fatty acids, minerals and vitamins making it a nutritive food for consumers in developing countries, especially in West Africa where it is widely cultivated. The high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids and essential amino acids, demonstrate that Cucumeropsis mannii Naudin has potential health benefits. Our results suggest that African oilseed is a potential food source that can be incorporated in many African/Western diets, and/or used in poultry and animal feed. Key words: African melon oilseed, protein, amino acids, fatty acids, mineral, vitamin.