Partial physicochemical and nutritional characterization of the fruit of Vitex mollis (Verbenaceae)

Abstract

The uvalama fruit ( Vitex mollis), collected in Sinaloa, Mexico, shows homogenous dimensions and color of both green and ripe fruits. The ripe fruit has a pH of 4.86 and its values of the proximate composition are in the range of other fruits. The edible part of the fruit has a high level of soluble dietary fiber (8 g/100 g d.w.) and it is a high source of chromium (0.61 mg/100 g d.w.). The phytic acid (8.5 g/100 g d.w.) and tannin (0.12 g/100 g d.w.) levels may be considered safe for human consumption. In this study, it was found that the uvalama seed has high contents of insoluble dietary fiber (82.3 g/100 g d.w.) and is a high source of copper (1.1 mg/100 g d.w.), chromium (0.7 mg/100 g d.w.) and zinc (3.8 mg/100 g d.w.). However, it shows levels of phytic acid (9.3 g/100 g d.w.) and nickel (9.1 mg/100 g d.w.) that could limit its use. Some of the nutrients in the edible part of the uvalama fruit could be a beneficial addition to the Mexican diet.