Nutritional evaluation of Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott leaves and corms from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

Green leafy vegetables (GLVs) are good sources of vital nutrients for human health sustenance. In this study, the nutrient compositions of Colocasia esculenta L. (Schott) leaves and corms from both Southern and Northern locations of KwaZulu-Natal province were investigated. Total, soluble, and insoluble oxalates and soil minerals were analysed to establish nutrient-plant organ correlations. Substantial variations were observed in nutrient contents among plant parts and locations. Young leaves in both locations showed higher phosphorus content and the northern location had the highest potassium levels in both young and mature leaves. Zinc and copper contents of leaf tissues were relatively low, ranging from 1.9 to 4.7 mg/100 g and 0.48–1.46 mg/100 g FW, respectively, whereas manganese (2–64 mg/100 g FW) and iron (13 – 88 mg/100 g FW) showed higher variability. While oxalate levels showed minimal location effects, corms had more than double the total oxalate content (35–39 g/100 g FW) of leaf tissues. Despite variations in mineral profile, Colocasia esculenta leaves can serve as a valuable source of essential micronutrients to address micronutrient needs in vulnerable communities.