Variation in tuber proximate composition, sugars, fatty acids and amino acids of eight Oromo dinich (Plectranthus edulis) landraces experimentally grown in Ethiopia

Abstract

Plectranthus edulis is one of the underutilized tubers indigenous to Ethiopia grown for its edible tuber. However, data on their variation on proximate, sugar, amino acids and fatty acids composition is largely unknown. Therefore, eight landrace, grown under identical conditions, were characterized. Considerable variation in the composition of the various landraces was observed. In general, the dry matter content of the tubers was lower compared to other edible tubers making the Oromo potato as it called locally, less suitable for frying and roasting. Also their higher reducing sugar (3.67–7.26% on dry matter basis) content compared to potatoes; restrict their application for frying purposes. Tubers were generally rich in minerals (4.47–7.03% on dry matter basis) and arginine content (up to 4.68% on dry matter basis). Remarkably, the extracted lipids contained typically 50% fatty acids, suggesting the presence of essential oils as well. The observed variation in nutrients composition exhibited the tuber’s promising potentials in human nutrition, food supplement and genetic engineering.