Physico-chemical analysis of oil from two cultivars of groundnut seeds (Arachis hypogea L.)

Abstract

Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is mostly grown as an annual crop purposely for its oil content and protein rich seeds. This research was conducted with aim of evaluating the physico-chemical properties of two cultivars of groundnut seeds. The seeds of groundnut were obtained from local farmers in Mada village of Gusau local government Zamfara State. The seeds were grounded into powder using mortar and pestle in preparation for analysis. Physico-chemical properties of groundnut seed oil were analyzed in Biochemistry laboratory of Federal University Gusau Zamfara State using standard procedures. Result of physical analysis of Yarbahausa groundnut showed the highest oil yield of 48.0 %, followed specific gravity which measured 1.57±1.2. Results of chemical properties revealed that, saponification value had the highest value of 168.8±0.14 followed by iodine and acid value of 81.5±0.3 and 12.3±0.35 respectively. Peroxide value and free fatty acids showed the lowest values of 4.43±0.45 and 1.56±0.41. Results of physical properties of Yarchina groundnut revealed that, specific gravity had the highest value 67.9±116.1, followed by oil yield of 46.2%. Chemical properties of oil showed that, saponification value had the highest value of 137.48±111.7 followed by iodine of 96.5±0.14. Peroxide value and free fatty acid showed the lowest value of 2.0±.96 and 1.53±0.39. Findings from this study revealed that, the oil extracted from seeds of groundnut is a good source of oil and should be used for both domestic and industrial applications based on their physical and chemical properties.