Proximate Composition Analysis Research Articles

Potentials and Pitfalls on the Use of Passion Fruit By-Products in Drinkable Yogurt: Physicochemical, Technological, Microbiological, and Sensory Aspects

Peels and seeds are the primary by-products of the passion fruit agroindustry. This study was designed to evaluate the potential of passion fruit peel and seeds flour (PFF) as a source of fiber and minerals to enhance the functional properties of drinkable yogurt. Proximate composition, mineral content, technological (pH, viscosity, color, and syneresis), and microbiological analyses (lactic acid bacteria, as well as yeast and mold counts), acceptance test, descriptive sensory analysis, and shelf life assessments were analyzed. Drinkable yogurts fortified with PFF showed higher fiber levels (both soluble and insoluble) and mineral content (potassium, magnesium, and manganese). Incorporation of PFF increased the viscosity and promoted changes in the color parameters of yogurts. During storage, the pH and the number of viable lactic acid bacteria decreased while the syneresis and yeast and mold counts increased. The shelf life of drinkable yogurts was estimated to be 21 days. Regarding sensorial aspects, drinkable yogurt fortified with 2% of PFF was considered the most viable product for market exploitation. The present contribution indicates that the use of passion fruit by-products in the development of drinkable yogurts is a viable alternative which can be explored for nutritional, technological, and sensory purposes by the food industry.

Evaluation of the chemical and nutritional characteristics of almonds (Prunus dulcis (Mill). D.A. Webb) as influenced by harvest time and cultivar.

BACKGROUNDSeveral workers have studied the effect of harvest time on chemical and nutritional composition of almonds, but the results are partly conflicting, probably due to differences in the cultivars considered and to different agronomic and climatic conditions in the growing areas. In this paper, the influence of harvest time and cultivar on the chemical and nutritional composition of almonds (Prunus dulcis (Mill). D.A. Webb) were evaluated. Ten cultivars were considered, grown in the same orchard and subjected to the same agronomical regime. Almonds were collected at two different harvest times: (i) when the fruits were unripe, but already edible, and showed green and moist hull; and (ii) when the fruits were ripe, with dry brown hull. The analyses of proximate composition, fatty acid profile, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity were carried out.RESULTSLipid content increased (P < 0.001) during ripening, while both protein and carbohydrate content decreased (P < 0.01). Fatty acid composition showed a not univocal behavior during ripening and was highly influenced by cultivar. Total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity varied among cultivars but increased during ripening with the exception of cv Marcona. The ‘Genco’ and ‘Francolì’ cultivars were found to be phenolic rich.CONCLUSIONHarvest time and cultivar significantly influenced the chemical and nutritional composition of almonds. Genotype strongly influenced fatty acid composition and total phenolic compounds. The changes of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity suggest that the synthesis of antioxidants also occurs in the last stage of ripening. Unripe almonds, a valuable niche product, showed interesting nutritional value. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry

Nutritional Quality and Safety of Chicken Meat Consumed in Ota, Ogun State

Background: Imported chicken meat is smuggled into the country through the porous borders of Idiroko road which leads into Ota, Ogun State, and sold to retailers in the open market. This study was carried out to assess and compare the nutritional composition and safety profile of the imported frozen, exotic commercial and indigenous chicken meats consumed in Ota metropolis. Materials and Methods: A total of 21 chicken meat samples were used for the analyses. Group 1, 2 and 3 comprise of seven samples each of imported, poultry and local chicken meat respectively. The samples were digested and nutritional composition assessed by determination of proximate composition and essential elemental analysis. The safety profile was determined by quantification of levels of heavy metals (cadmium, lead and chromium), malondialdehyde and lipid profile of the chicken meats. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 15.0. The level of significance was set at p <0.05. Result: The proximate composition revealed significantly higher (p<0.05) levels of food nutrients in groups 2 and 3compared to group 1. Similarly, the elemental analysis showed that groups 2 and 3 had significantly higher (p<0.05) levels of the elements and their concentration is within permissible limits compared to group 1 with significantly higher levels (p<0.05) of heavy metals such as lead, chromium and cadmium. Furthermore, the lipid profile analysis revealed significant increase (p<0.05) in levels of Low-Density Lipo-protein-Cholesterol (LDL-C), triglyceride and total cholesterol in the group 1 samples while group 3 has significantly higher levels (p<0.05) of High-Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol (HDL-C). Malondialdehyde levels were also significantly higher in the group 1 samples compared to groups 2 and 3.

Meat quality traits of M. longissimus lumborum from White Mangalica and (Duroc × White Mangalica) × White Mangalica pigs reared under intensive conditions and slaughtered at about 180-kg live weight

The objective of the study was to evaluate the meat quality of the Serbian autochthonous White Mangalica pure bred pig and its crossbreed with Duroc. A total of 24 pigs [White Mangalica – WM, n = 12, and (Duroc × White Mangalica) × White Mangalica) – (DWM)WM, n = 12)] were slaughtered on average 638 and 509 d of age, respectively. Colour and marbling score, and all physical (pH, instrumental colour and water holding capacity) and chemical (proximate and mineral composition and fatty acids profile) analyses were performed on M. longissimus lumborum. Pork from WM had higher marbling score and intramuscular fat content and was redder in colour than from (DWM)WM; while opposite was determined for moisture content. In intramuscular fat, WM had higher content of oleic acid as well as total monounsaturated fatty acids than (DWM)WM, while (DWM)WM had higher linoleic and arachidonic acids as well as total polyunsaturated fatty acids content. Inclusion of 25% Duroc gave pork with lower content of iron, copper and manganese. In summary, irrespective of differences in some particular traits White Mangalica crossbreds can represent a good alternative to pure White Mangalica without worsening the meat quality.

Radical scavenging potential, antiinflammatory and antiarthritic activity of isolated isomer Methyl-γ-Orsellinate and roccellatol from Roccella montagnei Bel

The burden of multiple drug resistance towards chronic diseases is rapidly increasing globally at an alarm rate. The present study aims to isolate active principles via bioassay guided fractionation of traditionally used lichen Roccella montagnei for in vitro radical scavenging activity with potential to combat arthritis and inflammation. The results of proximate composition and mineral analysis revealed the presence of essential amount of micro and macro nutrients which are required for secondary metabolite production. Fractions of Roccella montagnei and pure compounds were assessed for its in vitro antioxidant (DPPH, FRAP, OH radical, SOD, CAT, GPX), antiarthritic and antiinflammatory activity. The results indicates that lichen sample and fractions exhibited potent radical scavenger demonstrated in vitro antiarthritic and antiinflammatory activity in dose dependent manner. Bioassay fractionation lead to isolation of two pure compounds ie., Compound I and Compound II which were characterized using spectral data such as FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, DEPT NMR spectroscopy, COSY & HMQC NMR spectroscopy and LC-MS analysis and was identified as Methyl-γ-Orsellinate (C9H10O4) a novel isomer from fractions E2d5a with a molecular weight of 182.2 and Roccellatol (C12H16O7) from fractions D3d4c with a molecular weight of 272.3. The present findings suggest that the secondary metabolites present in the lichens have direct relation, with biological activities revealing different properties and can be a future novel antioxidant and a potent anti-arthritic agent.

Proximate, phytochemical screening and mineral analysis of &lt;i&gt;Crescentia cujete&lt;/i&gt; L. leaves

Background: One of the uses of Crescentia cujete leaves is in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, which necessitated the evaluation of its chemical composition.Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the chemical composition of C. cujete leaves.Setting: Fresh, mature leaves were harvested from the Herbal Garden, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Jericho Hill, Ibadan, Nigeria. The plant samples were identified at Forest Herbarium, Ibadan, Nigeria, sorted to eliminate extraneous matter and then air-dried on a cabinet dryer for five days at ambient temperature and oven-dried at 40°C for five minutes. The dried leaves were milled to powder using a medium-sized milling machine and stored in an air-tight container until needed for analysis.Methods: The proximate composition, phytochemical screening and mineral analysis were determined using standard analytic methods. Minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, manganese and magnesium were determined by the atomic absorption spectrophotometer; sodium and potassium by the flame photometer and phosphorus by the spectrophotometer.Results: The proximate analysis results revealed that the samples contained carbohydrate (40.46%), crude protein (16.15%), crude fibre (19.71%), crude fat (2.91%), ash (9.77%) and moisture (11.03%), while the phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of cardiac glycosides, saponins, tannins, anthraquinones and flavonoids. The mineral compositions (mg/g) decreased in the order Ca (6.0) &gt; K (5.0) &gt; Mg (2.2) &gt; P (1.5) &gt; Na (0.2) &gt; Fe = Zn (0.6) &gt; Cu = Mn (0.03).Conclusion: These results conceivably indicate that C. cujete is a good source of essential minerals and phyto-nutrients which possess strong pharmacological activities, providing scientific credence for its therapeutic usage in folklore medicine.

Nutritional composition and antinutritional properties of maize ogi cofermented with pigeon pea.

Maize was cofermented with pigeon pea for ogi production and evaluated for nutritional (proximate composition, minerals, vitamins, and amino acid profile analyses) and antinutritional (phytate, tannin, and trypsin inhibitor activity analyses) qualities. White maize and pigeon pea were mixed at ratios of 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50, respectively, with 100:0 serving as the control. Mixtures were cofermented for 96 hr at 27°C ± 2°C and nutritional, mineral, and antinutritional qualities were analyzed using analysis of variance. Results of proximate analysis showed that the values were significantly difference at p ≤ .05. Maize cofermented with pigeon pea at a ratio of 60:40 had the highest protein (22.79 mg/100 g), fat (19.27 mg/100 g), ash (2.98 mg/100 g), crude fiber (0.73 mg/100 g), and lowest moisture (1.98 mg/100 g) content, and was significantly (p ≤ .05) different from the other ratios. Of all the mixtures analyzed, 60:40 was significantly (p ≤ .05) different and had the highest Vitamin B1, B2, and B3 contents. Amino acid profile results showed that maize cofermented with pigeon pea at a ratio of 60:40 showed the highest contents of lysine (93.95 mg/g), tryptophan (20.38 mg/g), isoleucine (54.78 mg/g), phenylalanine (86.23 mg/g), leucine (109.55 mg/g), and valine (68.29 mg/g), respectively, and was significantly (p ≤ .05) different from the other ratios. Results of antinutritional analysis showed low phytate, tannin, and trypsin inhibitor values in maize cofermented with pigeon pea at a ratio of 60:40 when compared with other ratios. The cofermented maize‐pigeon pea product 60:40 had high amino acid profile than the others.

Proximate Compositions, Anti-Nutritional Factors and Minerals Content of Composite Flours and Bread from Blends of Wheat-Anchote-Soyabean Flours

The uses of wheat-Anchote-soyabean composite flours for bread making were not common at all. The aim of the study was to analyze nutritional content of Anchote-soyabean-wheat composite flours and its breads. The wheat flour was substituted by Anchote-soyabean flour at levels of 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50%. The developed breads were subjected to proximate, minerals and anti- nutritional factor. The data were analyzed using SAS software version 9. Analysis of composite bread proximate composition revealed that the moisture, ash, crude fibre and crude protein contents increased significantly (p&lt;0.05) from 100% wheat bread (30.90)%, (1.8)%, (1.36)% and (10.4) to 50% Anchote-soyabean substituted bread which had (36.0)%, (3.02)%, (3.53)%, and (12.05)%, respectively. On the other hand, the crude fat, utilizable carbohydrate and gross energy contents varied significantly (P≤0.05) from 100% wheat bread (1.77)%, (53.72)% and (272.62) % to 50% Anchote-soyabean substituted bread which had (1.50)%, (43.89)% and (237.34)%, respectively. Wheat bread had the lowest phytate and condensed tannin content (129.56) and (84.17) mg/100g, respectively. Whereas, 50% Anchote-soyabean substituted bread had the highest phytate and condensed tannin content (245.37) and (194.30) mg/100g, respectively. The mineral content of the bread also indicated that Ca and Zn contents increased with increasing Anchote-soyabean substituted bread from (29.27) to (35.93) mg/100g and (0.83) to (1.14) mg/100g, respectively. While the Mg content was decreased with increasing Anchote-soyabean substituted bread from 9.42 to 8.25 mg/100g. The nutritional content of wheatAnchote-soyabean composite flours bread was nutrient dense product, while its anti-nutritional factors level increase with increasing Anchote-soyabean substitutes.

Nutritional Quality Evaluation of Seven Maize Varieties Grown in Ethiopia

Maize is a predominant staple crop in sub-saharan Africa. Ethiopia is among the major maize producers in Africa and ranked third next to South Africa and Nigeria. The per capita consumption of maize in Ethiopia is about 60 kg per annum. Maize is an important crop to many African countries contributing to a significant daily energy intake. In addition to serving as a critical source of macro- and micronutrients, maize is also a rich source of many phytochemicals including carotenoid. However, there is limited information about the nutritional content of the different maize varieties growing in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to compare nutritional composition among six yellow maize varieties and one selected white maize variety cultivated in Ethiopia. Maize varieties were collected from Ethiopian Agricultural Research Institute, Melkasa and Bako center. Proximate and mineral composition analysis was carried out using AOAC method. Total carotenoid level was investigated by UV Spectrophotometer. Proximate composition of maize varieties revealed in the range of moisture content (9.42 - 11.45%), total ash (1.37 - 1.74%), crude fat (5.13 - 7.22%), crude protein (9.69 - 15.30%), crude fiber (1.62 - 3.45%), carbohydrate (62.13 - 69.99%) and Energy (365.93 to 385.82 kal/100g). The mineral content ranged for Fe, Zn and Ca was 2.34 - 3.73 mg/100g, 2.31 - 2.93 mg/100g and 31.25 - 48.1mg/100g respectively. The minimum total carotenoid in the yellow maize varieties was 11.43 (Melkassa 7) and the maximum was 27.62 μg/g (Melkassa 1q). No carotenoid was detected in the white maize variety (BH 660). There was significant difference (P<0.05) among maize varieties in total carotenoid. Yellow maize varieties contain high amount of carotenoid than white maize varieties. Promotion of yellow maize varieties is vital to enhance antioxidant intake that reduce risk of diseases such as cardiovascular and cancer without altering intake of other nutrients.

Proximate Composition and Heavy Metal Analysis of Three Aquatic Foods in Makoko River, Lagos, Nigeria

Three aquatic products, tilapia fish, lobster and crab, were collected from the landing site of fishermen in Makoko, a fishing suburb in Lagos State, Nigeria. They were analyzed for their proximate composition, and concentration of heavy metals (Cr, Cd, and Pb) was also measured in them. The nutrient values varied among the three organisms. The lobsters and crabs had higher protein values while tilapia was richer in lipid and moisture content. In most cases, these differences were not significant. The concentration of heavy metals also differed in the three organisms. All organisms had high concentrations of the three heavy metals analyzed. The heavy metal load as observed in this study is consistent with some previously reported values in literature. Plausible reasons for these differences were discussed in light of size, trophic level, choice of food of the organisms, and anthropogenic activities. It may be advisable that heavy metal concentrations are regularly monitored in edible aquatic food products so that human health is not at risk.

Analysis Chemical Compound of Pokea (Batissa Violacea Celebensis Martens 1897) The Origin of Konawe Regency Southeast Sulawesi

The aim of this study was to processing, and analyzing the results of extraction of chemical compounds to fresh, boiled and dried pokea shell that can be applied in analyzing antioxidant activity and testing cytotoxic activity. This study consists of Extracting the components in the shell according to the polarity level so that the unknown bioactive component can be extracted optimally on one of the solvents used, performing analysis of rendemen, to know the percentage of body parts of pokea shells that can be used, conducting proximate analysis, to determine the water content, ash content, fat content, and protein content. The results of proximate composition analysis show that pokea shell can be classified as high protein of fishery product, low fat, rendemen of pokea shell meat is average 27, 8%. The result of t-test analysis to the essential amino acid content of fresh and boiled pokea meat, only lysin is significantly different. While the content of non-essential amino acids, glutamic acid, serine, glycine, and cysteine are significantly different. The amount of total amino acids in pokea shell meat is relatively similar after boiling, while the total of non-essential amino acid has a significant decrease of 29, 43%, In fresh and boiled pokea shell meat identified 25 types of fatty acids. The content of fatty acids in pokea shells after boiling is relatively stable, Based on the ratio of n6/n3 and PUFA/SFA ratio of fresh, boiled and dried pokea shell, it can be said to be healthy and safe to consume, Based on the result of the identification that extract is true because it is proven giving positive reaction result which containing protein and carbohydrate.

Biochemical effects of commercial feedstuffs on the fry of climbing perch (Anabas testudineus) and its impact on Swiss albino mice as an animal model.

This study assesses the biochemical effects of commercially available fish feedstuffs on the fry of climbing perch (Anabas testudineus). Subsequently, its impact on experimental animal, Swiss albino mice, is also examined. In order to access the impact of commercial fish feed and feed consumption fish on the experimental animal, the proximate, biochemical and histopathological analyses were done using standard methods. The proximate composition as well as the concentrations of Pb, Ni, Mn, As, Zn, and Cd in the fish feed, different parts of the A. testudineus fish and different parts of the A. testudineus fish-treated experimental mice liver, were all determined using Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) Spectrometry. The highest levels of Cr, Pb and As were observed in the liver of Swiss albino mice treated with FFT2 and FFBB2 and their concentrations were 0.156, 0.491, 0.172 μg/g and 0.166, 0.771, 0.157 μg/g respectively. No significant changes of protein, fat, crude fiber, moisture and ash contents were observed after proximate composition analysis of fish feeds, A. testudineus and A. testudineus treated experimental mice. Significant amounts of heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Zn Cu, Ni) were found in fish feed, different parts of A. testudineus fish and in the experimental mice. However, remarkably high amounts were observed in the A. testudineus fish's head and bone with body parts. Biochemical analysis of blood samples of A. testudineus fish treated experimental mice indicated that the cholesterol, TG, LDL and glucose levels were significantly higher. Yet no significant alteration in the HDL level was observed when compared to the control. In histopathological analysis, a remarkable degeneration was observed in the liver and kidney of A. testudineus treated mice. It can therefore be concluded that although A. testudineus has nutritional benefits the quality of this fish may be compromised as a consequence of contamination through various anthropogenic activities. This analysis suggests the commercial fish feed producers must take special caution to reduce the toxic metals in various fish feed products and make it nutritionally rich and safe for fish to eat. Finally, it needs to be safe for human consumption as well.

Evaluation of polanga (Calophyllum inophyllum) oil cake as a non-conventional ingredient in Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822) fingerling feed

In the present study, polanga (Calophyllum inophyllum) oil cake (POC) was evaluated as a non-conventional ingredient in Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822) fingerling feed. Proximate composition and fatty acid analysis of POC indicated that it can be a good source of protein (24.2%) and energy (4.4 kcal g-1). Fatty acid analysis indicated that it is dominated by monoenes (39%) followed by saturates (28.42) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) n-6 (27.76%). Further, phenol, tannin and flavonoids were detected as prominent secondary metabolites. Five iso-nitrogenous (25-26%, crude protein) feeds incorporated with POC @ 0% (F1), 10% (F2), 20% (F3), 30% (F4) and 40% (F5) level were fed to L. rohita fingerlings for 90 days in indoor conditions. At the end of the experiment, it was observed that survival percentage (95-97%) of F1, F2 and F3 groups was statistically similar which was significantly higher (p&lt;0.05) compared to F4 and F5. The gain in weight and specific growth rate (SGR) of F1 and F2 were similar but next higher inclusion levels of POC significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced the growth in F3, F4 and F5 groups. In addition, feed conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly lower (p&lt;0.05) and similar in F1and F2. Protein efficiency ratio (PER) and net protein utilization (NPU) were found significantly higher (p&lt;0.05) in F1 and F2 as compared to the rest of the groups. Haemoglobin, serum protein, albumin and globulin in blood were similar in F1 and F2 (p&gt;0.05), which were significantly higher than the levels in other groups (p&lt;0.05). Serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and glucose levels increased significantly in F3, F4 and F5 groups compared to F1 and F2. POC was used for the first time in carp feeds as a non-conventional feed ingredient during this study and the results clearly indicated that POC could be incorporated @ 100 g kg-1 in the feed of L. rohita fingerlings without any adverse effect on growth, survival and nutrient utilisation.

Proximate composition and micronutrient profile of different size groups of hilsa Tenualosa ilisha (Hamilton, 1822) from river Ganga

The Indian shad hilsa, Tenualosa ilisha (Hamilton, 1822) is an important food fish in South-east Asian countries. The fish is rich in oil and known for its high omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content; however information available on the micronutrient profile of this commercially important food fish is limited. The present study investigated the detailed micronutrient profile (mineral and fat soluble vitamins) of different size groups of hilsa. Proximate composition analysis revealed that besides being rich in crude fat (7.91-14.61%), the protein content of this fish is also very high (19.44-21.86%). The macro-minerals potassium, calcium and micro-minerals iron, zinc and the fat soluble vitamins A and E are the dominant micronutrients in different size groups of hilsa. Comparative nutritional evaluation of different size groups of hilsa showed that medium size fish is nutritionally superior to both small and large size groups.

Formulation, sensory evaluation, proximate composition and storage stability of cassava strips produced from the composite flour of cassava and cowpea.

The study developed an acceptable formula for the production of cassava strips (a deep fried product) using composite flour of cassava/cowpea at four different levels of cowpea substitutions (100:0, 90:10, 80:20, and 70:30). Sensory properties, proximate composition, and shelf life at ambient temperature were determined. Proximate composition, shelf life, and microbial analysis were further done on the most preferred sample (80:20) and the control (100:0). Results showed a significant difference between the tested sample and the control, except in their moisture (4.1%–4.2%) and fiber (5.0%) contents which were similar. Protein content increased from 0.9% to 2.6%, fat 24.6% to 28.5%, carbohydrate 59.7% to 61.1%, and ash 1.8% to 2.5% in both control and most preferred sample. Results showed no changes in their peroxide value (2.4 mEq/kg), moisture content (4.1%), and bacterial count of 0 × 102 CFU/g at ambient storage temperature for 4 weeks. The addition of cowpea flour increased the nutritional quality of the cassava strips.

A feeding experiment using captive green sturgeon (Acipenser medirostris Ayres, 1854): Testing non-invasive methods to assess condition and growth

Non-invasive methods to determine sturgeon condition are needed for both aquaculture and sturgeon conservation. Such information could help optimize feed choice or holding conditions in aquaculture, and/or allow identification of habitats that are important for sturgeon feeding in the wild. The aim was to determine whether lipid levels (measured by a Distell fish fatmeter) could be used to assess changes in green sturgeon (Acipenser medirostris) condition relative to lethal methods (proximate analysis). Thirty non-reproductive and uniquely marked sturgeon (age 9–11, total length 75.1–114 cm, weight 1.9–7.4 kg) were held at the Conte Anadromous Fish Research Center, Turners Fall, Massachusetts, USA, in Connecticut River water at 14ºC, and under five different rations: 0.1%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% body weight/day. Fatmeter readings and conducted proximate composition analysis were taken on muscle tissue of sacrificed animals after 167 days. Five fatmeter measurements were taken at each of three different sites along the dorsal flank above the lateral line. Muscle fat content was determined at the same locations via supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) using carbon dioxide and an ethanol modifier. Fish fed at >0.1% body weight/day gained weight (mean 0.53 ± 0.69–0.74 ± 0.34 kg) and their condition increased by 2%–9% in <6 months. The hepatosomatic index (liver weight/body weight × 100) increased with the ration from 1.12 ± 0.180 (lowest ration) to 1.96 ± 0.357 for fish fed at 0.5% body weight/day. Muscle protein content was positively correlated with the ration and inversely correlated with muscle moisture content. In spite of a wide range of final individual muscle lipid levels determined by proximate analysis (0.5%–3.4%), there was no statistical relationship between the two measures of lipid content, regardless of the position of where they were taken on the sturgeon body. Further refinement of this technology, including species-specific calibration, is needed if it is to be used on sturgeon either in aquaculture settings or in the wild.

Biofortification of maize flour with grain amaranth for improved nutrition

Food insecurity and malnutrition remain two major problems in Kenya that cause undernutrition (protein-energy malnutrition) and nutrient deficiencies. In a bid to combat the problem, the government has targeted increased production of the micronutrient (minerals, vitamins) fortified maize flour. This is mostly based on chemical fortificants, which is a short-term measure that targets reducing the level of malnutrition while creating better livelihoods. However, there is need to think about long- term and sustainable strategies. Among the causes that have led to food and nutrition insecurity in the country is the over reliance on maize as the staple food. Other staples in Kenya are sorghum, rice and millet. This study aimed at providing a better and more sustainable approach by fortifying maize based diets with grain amaranth. Maize was procured from National Cereals and Produce Board and processed to refined flour, while amaranth grain that had been toasted at 100oC for 5 minutes and milled into flour was obtained from Annicos Limited Company, Nairobi. Complementary formulations were then prepared by blending the flours. The refined maize flour was mixed with varying ratios of 0, 20, 30 and 40% of the grain amaranth flour. The proximate composition, mineral content and microbiological analysis of the raw materials and the blends were determined using recognized standard methods, while protein digestibility was determined after enzyme digestion. Nutritional composition of grain amaranth flour differed significantly (p≤0.05) as compared to refined maize flour; amaranth flour was found to be superior in proteins (15.82%), lipids (7.61%), ash (2.54%) and fibre (4.39%), as compared to proteins (6.29%), lipids (1.92%), ash (0.55%) and fibre (0.76%) in refined maize flour. Adding grain amaranth flour to refined maize flour at the different ratios increased the nutrient density significantly (p≤0.05), particularly protein, iron, calcium and zinc. However, it decreased the digestibility of protein significantly (p≤0.05). The results indicate that although adding 40% grain amaranth gave the best results, the most acceptable blend was the 20% grain amaranth addition. They also indicate that “food to food” fortification can be an approach that can be adapted towards meeting the nutrition requirements of the society. Keywords: Nutrition security, biofortification, amaranth flour, maize flour, optimal blend

Comparative Assessment of Nutritional Composition in Raw and Cooked Indian Freshwater Fish Lepidocephalus thermalis (V.)

Lepidocephalus thermalis, the Indian Spiny Loach is an IUCN least concern status edible freshwater fish with indigenous flavor and taste found endemic in Tamil Nadu. In this study, the proximate nutritional composition, amino acid, vitamin, fatty acid, micro and macro mineral analyses for raw and boiled fish samples were estimated instantaneously as cooking could lead to changes in the level of certain nutrients. This fish is with 33.09% saturated, 32.86% mono unsaturated and 30.49% polyunsaturated fatty acids. The predominant amino acids were glycine (715 mg/100 g), histidine (375 mg/100 g), alanine (237 mg/100 g) and arginine (130 mg/100 g). The fish comprised a good level of calcium (924 mg/100 g), zinc (0.14 mg/100 g) and iron (1.86 mg/100 g). Boiled fish had reduced level of certain amino acids like glycine (410 mg/100 g) and alanine (124 mg/100 g). There was no significant difference in the fatty acid composition in the boiled fish.

Evaluation of l-dopa, proximate composition with in vitro anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of Mucuna macrocarpa beans: A future drug for Parkinson treatment

ObjectiveTo investigate L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-dopa, anti-Parkinson drug), anti-inflammatory activity, proximate nutritional composition and antioxidant potential of Mucuna macrocarpa (M. macrocarpa) beans. Methodsl-dopa content was determined and quantified by high performance thin layer chromatography and reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) methods. Anti-inflammatory activity was performed by in vitro protein denaturation inhibition and human red blood cell membrane stabilisation activity. Proximate composition and elemental analysis were also investigated. The antioxidant potential (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, N-N-dimethyl-phenylenediamine and ferric-reducing antioxidant power) of M. macrocarpa beans were evaluated by using different extraction solvents. The RP-HPLC analysis also quantified significant phenolics such as gallic acid, tannic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid and p-coumaric acid. ResultsRP-HPLC quantification revealed that M. macrocarpa beans contain a high level of l-dopa [(115.41 ± 0.985) mg/g] which was the highest among the Mucuna species from Indian sub-continent. Water extract of seed powder showed strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential. Proximate composition of M. macrocarpa beans revealed numerous nutritional and anti-nutritional components. RP-HPLC analysis of major phenolics such as tannic acid (43.795 mg/g), gallic acid (0.864 mg/g), p-coumaric acid (0.364 mg/g) and p-hydroxybenzoic acid (0.036 mg/g) quantified successfully from M. macrocarpa beans respectively. ConclusionsThis study suggests that M. macrocarpa is a potential source of l-dopa with promising anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and nutritional benefits.

Chemical characterization of marine fish of low-commercial value and development of fish burgers

Abstract: The objective of this work was to perform the chemical characterization of marine bonefish (Albula vulpes) and the development of fish burgers. Three formulations of fish burgers were prepared, containing 5, 8, and 10% cassava starch and functional ingredients (onion, garlic, and ground white pepper). Proximate composition, microbiological and pH analyses of the raw material, and fish burgers were performed, as well as the sensory analyses of the fish burgers. The yield and nutritional value of bonefish was found to be comparable with those of species of commercial value, with high-protein and low-lipid contents. The protein content of the fish burgers varied from 17.52 to 19.40 g 100 g-1 (raw), and from 20.74 to 24.25 g 100 g-1 (grilled); and the lipid contents ranged from 0.20 to 0.73 g 100 g-1 (raw), and from 0.36 to 0.77 g 100 g-1 (grilled). In the sensory tests, the formulations received scores between six and seven on the nine-point hedonic scale. Acceptance indexes were higher than 70% for all the assessed attributes. Therefore, the use of this underutilized species proves to be feasible.