Provenance variations in proximate principles, mineral matter, total phenols and phytochemicals of Melia dubia drupes: an unexplored alternate livestock feed stock

Abstract

This research was carried out on nine provenances from the north Western Ghats to quantify proximate principles, mineral matter, total phenols and other phytochemicals in Melia dubia drupe pulp. Drupe biometric, biomass attributes, proximate principles, mineral matter and total phenols differed significantly among the provenances. The average drupe length and width was 26.5 and 22.3 mm, respectively. Average drupe and pulp fresh weight, pulp dry weight and stone weight were 783.1, 552.1, 165.1, and 179.8 g/100 drupes, respectively. Pulp, dry matter and moisture per cent were 70.5%, 29.9% and 70.0%, respectively. Average crude fibre, protein, ether extract, total ash and nitrogen- free extract were 8.3%, 7.6%, 5.1%, 6.3%, and 72.6%, respectively. Average Ca, Mg, P and K levels were 0.5%, 0.2%, 0.2%, and 2.0%, respectively. Total phenols were 0.4%. Cluster analysis showed that the study area may be divided into three distinct provenances, each having different drupe traits and proximate composition, including mineral components. Gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry analysis revealed 27 phytochemicals, many of which possess beneficial biological attributes. The implications of this provenance variation study should be useful for future improvement in terms of better drupe pulp nutrition for livestock feed. Further study suggests that M. dubia pulp could be categorized as a good feed source with low fibre, energy, fat and mineral levels. All proximate parameters, mineral matter content and total phenols are within prescribed limits.