Nutritional Value Research Articles

Analysis of the nutritional composition of Bahraini breed camel (Camelus dromedarius) milk: fatty acid, mineral, phenolic, and antioxidant content

Camels live under extremely arid conditions, yet they can produce more milk than any other animal in the desert ecosystem. They also have a longer lactation duration as well as low nutrition requirements. This study aims to determine the fatty acids profile, minerals, antioxidant activity and total phenols/flavonoids content, in camel milk of the species Camelus dromedarius in Bahrain. Gas chromatography was employed to analyze the fatty acid methyl esters obtained after the extraction of fatty acids. Mineral concentrations were measured by an Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer. Antioxidant measurements included total phenolic content by the Folin-Ciocalteu method, total flavonoid contents by AlCl3 colorimetric method, and total antioxidant activity by the ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. The fatty acids analysis (median(interquartile range) %) showed that the most predominant fatty acids were unsaturated fatty acids (50.40(6.76) %), which were slightly higher than saturated fatty acids (49.60(12.17) %). The most abundant saturated fatty acids were C16:0 (26.73(6.73) %), C18:0 (12.32(4.28) %), and C14:0 (10.55(2.86)%). Monounsaturated fatty acid 18:1n9 was 31.5(5.66) %, and 16:1n7 was 12.75(2.19)%, while the major omega-3 was C18:3n3 (3.91(0.71) %). The main omega-6 were C18:2n6 and C18:3n6, accounting for 1.30(0.35) % and 0.94(0.21) %, respectively. The mineral content of camel milk varied, with the presence of macro minerals such as calcium (699.60 mg/L), sodium (855.18 mg/L), magnesium (9.33 mg/L) and potassium (87.09 mg/L). The results showed that camel milk has considerable values of total antioxidant activity (4.75(1.71) mmol/g), total phenolic contents (20.24(11.18) mg GAE/L) and total flavonoid contents (31.74(20.72) mg CE/L). In conclusion, although the (poly)phenol content in camel milk is relatively lower compared to certain plant-based sources, it can represent a good source of antioxidants, in addition to a significant content in unsaturated fatty acids and minerals, further enhancing its nutritional value for human health.

Diversity and Chemical Characterization of Apple (Malus sp.) Pollen: High Antioxidant and Nutritional Values for Both Humans and Insects

Pollen represents a reward for pollinators and is a key element in plant–insect interactions, especially in apples, which are entomophilous species and require cross-pollination to produce economically valuable yields. The aim of this study was to analyze the chemical content of the pollen in 11 apple cultivars (‘Red Aroma’, ‘Discovery’, ‘Summerred’, ‘Rubinstep’, ‘Elstar’, ‘Dolgo’, ‘Professor Sprenger’, ‘Asfari’, ‘Eden’, ‘Fryd’ and ‘Katja’) grown in Norway and try to establish a relationship between them and insect attractiveness. In the applied chemical analysis, 7 sugars and sugar alcohols, 4 organic acids, 65 phenolic compounds, 18 hydroxycinnamic acid amides (phenylamides), a large number of polypeptides with a molecular weight of 300 kDa to <6.5 kDa, lipids, carotenoids, starch, pectin and cellulose were determined. The crab apples ‘Dolgo’ and ‘Professor Sprenger’, which are used as pollenizers in commercial orchards, had the highest level of sucrose, total polyphenol content (prevent oxidative damages in insects), antioxidant capacity, hydroxybenzoic acids and derivatives, quercetin and derivatives, dihyrochalcone, epicatechin, putrescine derivates, and proteins with molecular weight 66–95 kDa and >95 kDa, which made them interesting for insect pollenizers. Only the pollen of the crab apples contained quercetin-3-O-(2″-O-malonyl)-hexoside, which can be used as a marker for the apple species Malus sylvestris (L.) Mill. Apple floral pollen is a rich source of bioactive components and can be used to prevent and/or cure diseases or can be included in diets as a “superfood”.

Genetic Variability Studies in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) for Yield and Contributing Traits Through Half-diallel Mating Strategy under Late-sown Conditions

Background: One of the oldest cultivated legumes, chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.), are essential for world nutrition, especially with climate change. Chickpea output is poor despite rising demand for its nutritional value. Improved genetics can enhance yields to fulfil local and global demands. By selecting better parents and potential hybrids utilising half-diallel mating, breeders can hasten the development of high-yielding, durable cultivars. Methods: This study examined 55 half-diallel mating genotypes, comprising 10 parental lines and 45 F1 hybrids. At the Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology Genetics and Plant Breeding Farm in Ayodhya, U.P., these were evaluated using a randomised block design with three replications under late-sown circumstances in 2022-23 rabi. Normal agricultural procedures were used. A four-meter row of each genotype was planted with 30 cm between rows and 10 cm between plants. Genetic indices like GCV, PCV, heritability, genetic progress, correlation coefficient and path analysis were evaluated. Result: ANOVA revealed significant genetic variability across all traits. Biological yield plant-1 had the highest PCV and GCV, followed by seed yield plant-1. Heritability and genetic progress were highest for days to 50% flowering and biological yield plant-1, indicating strong genetic control. Days to 50% flowering and maturity inversely linked with most yield-related characteristics. Seed yield was closely associated with primary and secondary branches plant-1, plant height, pods per plant, seeds pod-1, 100-seed weight and biological yield. Path coefficient study showed that all characteristics except days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and plant height influenced grain yield.

ANALYSIS OF THE POTENTIAL FOR WATERMELON PRODUCTION AND MARKETING IN THE STATE OF GOIÁS FROM 2019 TO 2023

The state of Goiás stands out in agribusiness, especially in fruit production, due to its growing domestic and foreign markets. Among fruits, watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) stands out, being relevant both economically and socially, generating jobs in several sectors. However, this emerging market lacks policies and techniques as developed as those present in sectors such as soybeans and corn, which highlights the underutilization of the potential of watermelon production in the state. This study aims to evaluate innovations, whether public policies or private initiatives, that can improve the production and marketing of watermelon in Goiás. The research seeks to analyze performance indicators and identify actions that promote efficiency and gains for the local community and producers, considering that watermelon is widely consumed in several sectors, standing out for its nutritional and cultural value. The study methodology follows two stages: a review of the literature on fruit production chains and the agricultural market in Goiás, followed by an analysis of data on competitiveness, consumption trends and opportunities in the watermelon production chain. Based on these results, strategies will be proposed to optimize production, increasing the competitiveness of producers and promoting the sustainable development of the sector. The study will also highlight the main weaknesses and strengths of marketing and production, using variables such as production size, demand, and available technologies.

Using an enzyme preparation and vitamin C to increase the meat productivity of broiler chickens

Purpose: to study the effect of vitamin C and MEK Feedbest®VGPro when introduced into the compound feed of broiler chickens with excessive background of heavy metals on the indices of meat productivity, food and biological value, ecological safety of their meat.Materials and methods. The objects of the study were meat chickens of the ROSS-508 cross. At the age of one day, 4 groups of 100 birds each were formed from them in accordance with the principle of analog groups. In the composition of the used recipes of complete compound feed in all three age periods of growing, the main grain and protein ingredients were represented by locally produced feed: corn, wheat, peas and rapeseed meal. Growing of experimental broilers for meat was completed at the age of 42 days and their control slaughter was carried out, for which 5 birds were selected from each group. The concentration of salts of heavy metals was determined in the samples of feed and meat of the experimental birds.Results. The experiment substantiated the feasibility of combined introduction of MEC Feedbest®VGPro at a rate of 100 g/t of feed and vitamin C at a rate of 500 g/t of feed into diets with excessive content of heavy metal salts. Compared to the control analogues, broilers of the 3rd experimental group showed a reliable (p<0,05) decrease in fat by 0,26 % and a simultaneous increase in dry matter, protein and the value of the protein-quality indicator in the pectoral muscle samples. Combined additions of the tested preparations contributed to a decrease in the concentration of zinc by 63,17 % (p<0,05), cadmium by 61,11 % (p<0,05) and lead by 62,34 % (p<0,05) in poultry meat samples from the 3rd experimental group, compared to the control. Moreover, in the meat samples of broilers of the 3rd experimental group, the maximum permissible concentrations of none of these elements were exceeded.

Nourishing Aquatic Life: A Comprehensive Reviewing of Fish Feed Strategies and Disease Combat in Aquaculture

With an increasing focus on creating sustainable methods that satisfy the nutritional requirements of aquatic life while successfully containing disease outbreaks, aquaculture has emerged as a crucial element of global food security. Nourishing Aquatic Life: A Comprehensive Review of Fish Feed Strategies and Disease Combat in Aquaculture explores the delicate balance between disease management and feed optimization, two crucial factors influencing the ecological sustainability and productivity of aquaculture systems. Innovative substitutes, including plant-based proteins, insect meal, and microbial sources, are being assessed alongside conventional fish feed formulations, which rely on fishmeal and fish oil to lessen environmental stresses while preserving high nutritional value. This article also covers how probiotics, prebiotics, and immunostimulants can improve fish immunity and resilience against common diseases, lowering the need for antibiotics and the likelihood of resistance. Additionally, we look at the most recent developments in fish feed formulation using biofloc, genetic engineering, and nanotechnology, emphasizing their implications for better fish health and disease resistance. These innovative strategies offer a hopeful vision for the future of aquaculture, inspiring us to continue our efforts in this field.

Salicylic acid altered the fatty acids compositions and nutrient status of shallot (Allium hirtifolium) grown under drought stress

In arid and semi-arid regions, water shortage is a persistent challenge, significantly affecting plant growth and productivity. To mitigate the detrimental effects of drought, the use of plant growth regulators, such as salicylic acid (SA), has proven to be an effective strategy for enhancing plant resilience, as well as improving yield and quality. This study aimed to investigate the impact of SA on the nutrient composition, yield, and overall quality of shallot plants over three cropping seasons (2020, 2021, and 2022) under drought stress conditions. A split-plot design with four replicates was employed, where irrigation levels (0 %, 50 %, 75 %, and 100 % of the plant's water requirements) were the main factor, and varying concentrations of SA (0, 0.5, 0.75, and 1 mM) were the secondary factor. The results revealed that drought stress increased the concentrations of key micronutrients—iron, copper, sodium, potassium, manganese, and zinc—while reducing magnesium content, ash content, and overall yield. However, the application of SA counteracted these effects by significantly enhancing magnesium content, ash content, and yield in shallot plants. In addition, drought stress increased the levels of palmitic, palmitoleic, and oleic acids while reducing the levels of stearic, linoleic, and linolenic acids. The highest concentrations of linoleic acid (ω6, 110.1 mg) and linolenic acid (ω3, 24.242 mg) were recorded under full irrigation and 75 % water requirement treatments, respectively. SA application further enhanced the levels of stearic, oleic, and linoleic acids, improving the overall nutritional quality of shallot plants. In conclusion, the application of optimal concentrations of SA significantly improves the yield, quality, and nutritional value of shallot plants under drought stress, making it a valuable approach for managing water stress in agriculture.

Can commercial aquafeeds improve the nutritional value of brine shrimp? Proximal composition and lipid profile of alternative enhancers

Artemia, commonly known as brine shrimp, holds a significant role as live prey in ornamental and commercial fish aquaculture. This study addressed the nutritional deficiency in adult Artemia biomass, exploring alternative enrichers available in Brazil. Evaluating a commercial aquafeed (Polinutre Poli Camarão 400PL) and a lipid emulsion (BioViv HUFA Continum), adult Artemia were subjected to different enrichment protocols, including periods of 1, 12, and 24 hours with each enricher, as well as a test group raised 100% on the commercial feed. Protein content for Artemia exclusively fed the commercial aquafeed (CF100) reached values very similar to those provided by the main commercial products available worldwide and other commonly used live prey. Enrichment time effects were observed from 12 h onwards, showing positive impacts on protein accumulation. Lipid content peaked at 12 h, followed by a decrease at 24 h. Further studies are needed to assess whether the combination of feed-based protocols followed by 12-h lipid emulsion enrichment can surpass the current results, providing high levels of protein content while maintaining a complete lipid profile.

Jujube Syrup and Starter YF‐L922 Co‐Fermentation of Yak Yogurt: Effects of Quality Properties, Antioxidative Activities and Structure

ABSTRACTDifferent percentages of jujube yrup (0%, 3%, 6% and 9%) were incorporated into yak milk and fermented using the fermenting agent YF‐L922. The quality characteristics and antioxidant activity of the resulting yogurt were evaluated at days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28. The results indicated that the pH and acidity of the yogurt were not significantly influenced by the varying additions of jujube syrup during storage (p > 0.05). However, the addition of jujube syrup significantly reduced the water‐holding capacity of the yogurt (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of jujube syrup were significantly and positively correlated with both antioxidant activity and free radical scavenging ability (p < 0.05). The live bacterial count of the yogurt decreased significantly by day 28, although the count of live lactic acid bacteria remained above 106 CFU/mL. Notably, yak yogurt with a 3% addition of jujube syrup achieved a favorable sensory score. The incorporation of jujube syrup resulted in a firmer texture and a more porous microstructure, demonstrating a higher degree of syneresis. Additionally, the inclusion of jujube syrup substantially diminished the animalic odor associated with yak milk, improved flavor acceptability and enhanced the antioxidative properties of yak yogurt. Therefore, yak yogurt augmented with jujube syrup represents a novel product with high nutritional value.

Breastfeeding myths - the prevalence among the population of Polish women.

Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended until the child is six months of age. However, there are many myths about breastfeeding. The aim of our study was to assess the knowledge of Polish women about breastfeeding. A cross-sectional survey study was conducted among 1536 Polish women. A self-administered questionnaire was created using Google Forms survey management software and distributed online. The participants were asked about the most common myths in society regarding breastfeeding. The highest number of correct answers in all age groups were given to questions related to the nutritional value of breast milk (80.9-94.9%). The fewest correct answers in each age group were recorded to questions concerning the possibility of getting pregnant during the first 6 months of breastfeeding (16.1-35.3%), the safety of drinking non-alcoholic beer during lactation (24.4-37.1%), the benefits of brushing the breast while breastfeeding (16.0-37.1%), and the effectiveness of compresses made of cabbage leaves or sage infusions in relieving ailments during milk rush (6.8-12.4%). Higher education and being a mother were associated with a higher number of correct answers. Age below 25 years was associated with lower number of correct answers. The results of the survey regarding breastfeeding suggest the existence of various beliefs in the population of Polish women which are not evidence based. This indicates the need for spreading adequate information about breastfeeding, especially among younger women and those who did not obtain higher education.

From Regulation to Application: The Role of Abscisic Acid in Seed and Fruit Development and Agronomic Production Strategies

Abscisic acid (ABA) is a crucial plant hormone that plays a decisive role in regulating seed and fruit development and is becoming increasingly important in agricultural applications. This article delves into ABA’s regulatory functions in plant growth, particularly during the stages of seed and fruit development. In the seed phase, elevated ABA levels help maintain seed dormancy, aiding seed survival under unfavorable conditions. During fruit development, ABA regulates pigment synthesis and sugar accumulation, influencing the nutritional value and market quality of the fruit. This article highlights three main strategies for applying ABA in agricultural production: the use of ABA analogs, the development of ABA signal modulators, and breeding techniques based on ABA signaling. ABA analogs can mimic the natural functions of ABA, while ABA signal modulators, including enhancers and inhibitors, are used to finely tune plant responses to ABA, optimizing crop performance under specific growth conditions. Furthermore, breeding strategies based on ABA signaling aim to select crop varieties that effectively utilize ABA pathways through genetic engineering and other technologies. ABA is not only a key regulator of plant growth and development but also holds great potential for modern agricultural practices.

Quality Properties of Bakery Products and Pasta Containing Spent Coffee Grounds (SCGs): A Review

Coffee is one of the most consumed and popular beverages worldwide, and it produces a significant quantity of waste. Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) are one of the major waste products that can be used as an ingredient for creating novel foods. Therefore, the effect of incorporating varying percentages of spent coffee grounds (SCGs) on the quality properties of bakery products and pasta is reviewed. Chemically, SCGs alter protein, fat, fiber, ash, and bioactive compound levels in bakery and pasta products, improving nutritional value and promoting health benefits. The impact of SCGs on the physical characteristics of baked goods depends on factors like SCG concentration and processing methods, which influence product texture and structure. Sensory properties are vital for consumer acceptance. SCGs can add unique flavors and colors to baked goods, but more attention is needed to optimize the SCGs’ incorporation concentration for a better consumer appeal. In conclusion, integrating SCGs into bakery products and pasta offers nutritional enhancement, sustainability, and sensory improvement opportunities. Optimizing product quality allows manufacturers to leverage SCGs’ potential in the food industry.

Diversity and ethnobotanical study of homegarden plants in Goba district, Oromia region, Ethiopia

Homegardens are one of the most diverse agroforestry systems and make a vital contribution to meeting various household needs, especially for smallholder farmers in developing countries. The aim of this study was to record the diversity and use of homegarden plant species in the Goba District. The households were randomly selected from five kebeles, with the number selected proportionate to the size of each kebele using the probability proportional to size (PPS) calculation. Seventy-one homegarden owners were chosen for the detailed study and data collection. Of the fifteen kebeles in the Goba District, five kebeles were chosen at random. Observations, semi-structured interviews, preference rating, direct matrix rankings, and paired comparisons were the methods used to gather ethno-botanical data. Descriptive statistical approaches, including density, frequency, relative frequency, relative density, and the Shannon and Wiener indices for species diversity were used to analyze the data. A total of 67 plant species belonging to 31 families were identified. Of the 67 plant species, 36 (or 54%) were herbs, 15 (or 22%) were tree species, 22% shrubs, and 2% were climbers. Twenty-eight (20.8%) species collected from homegardens had food and forage value, 17 (25.3%) had fence value, 12 (18%) had shade value, and 23 (34.3%) had medicinal value; moreover, 90% of the homes had home gardens, indicating that farmers value gardening plants that helps improve household food security and revenue generation. The involvement of the local population and government institutions in providing awareness through instruction or training on the sustainable use and management of plant resources is vital to conserve homegarden plants.

Evaluation of toxicity of feed additive for highly productive animals

The study of new feed additives requires toxicological research to assess their safety for further use. This research presents the results of an acute toxicity study of the feed additive “Bodrivin,” developed for highly productive animals of dairy, meat-dairy, and meat breeds. The aim is to prevent stress of various etiologies, enhance the nutritional value of the diet, especially during periods of energy deficiency, and consequently improve productivity and profitability in production. Non-linear laboratory rats were used for the experiment. The first experimental group received a single oral dose of the feed additive via syringe and atraumatic needle with a bulbous end at a dosage of 2000 mg/kg. After obtaining the results of the experiment over a 14-day period, a similar experiment was conducted on the second experimental group. At the conclusion of the experiment, no signs indicating toxic effects of the studied feed additive were observed in the animals, and the body weight of the experimental animals remained unchanged in both the first and second series of the experiment. The acute toxicity study of the feed additive “Bodrivin” indicated that the evaluated feed additive belongs to Class V of danger according to GOST 32644-2014.

Insight into the conformational changes and allergenic reactivity of coarse wheat bran induced by ozone treatment.

Whole grain food has gradually come into view because of its high nutritional value, but the incidence of wheat allergies has been increasing year by year. Ozone is a new non-thermal desensitization technology in food processing, and its effect on coarse wheat bran protein has received little study. We investigated the effects of different ozone airflow rates and treatment times on wheat bran allergenic property and protein structure. The ozone treatment time of 30 min at an airflow rate of 5 L min-1 reduced the coarse wheat bran allergenic property by 61.14%; subunits of 33, 46, 48 and 68 kDa were significantly less allergenic via western blotting; and the lowest releasing rate of β-hexosaminidase was 25.32% in the cell model of rat basophilic leukaemia 2H3. According to secondary structure and chemical interaction determination, the protein molecules were reorganized and aggregated by disulfide bonds and hydrophobic contacts following ozone exposure. Ozone treatment has a beneficial potential in reducing the allergenic property of coarse wheat bran and improving the safety of whole wheat products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

ESTIMATION OF NUTRITIVE VALUE OF “NANNARI KANJI” AND EVALUATION OF ITS ANTI-BACTERIAL ACTIVITY AGAINST STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS, A RESPIRATORY PATHOGEN BY IN VITRO METHOD

Objective: To estimate the nutritive value of Nannari Kanji. To evaluate the beneficial effect of Nannari Kanji against the respiratory pathogen, Staphylococcus aureus. To analyze the minerals present in Nannari Kanji. Methods: Nannari Kanji is a polyherbal formulation prepared using Nannari, Karunguruvai rice, and coconut milk by simple boiling method. In the present study, the Nutritive value of Nannari Kanji was analyzed and its antimicrobial activity was studied in terms of minimum inhibitory concentration against the respiratory pathogen, S. aureus. In addition to that mineral analysis was performed using the ICP-OES instrument. Results: In the nutritive analysis, protein (26.83%) was present in large amounts. The antimicrobial activity showed an inhibitory effect against S. aureus at the concentration of 527.02 μg/mL. The mineral analysis confirms the presence of magnesium, iron, and zinc of which magnesium shows a higher value (192.06 ppm). Discussion and Conclusion: Nannari Kanji has potent antimicrobial activity against S. aureus. It has more protein and fat content, which is useful in suppressing respiratory infections. Nannari Kanji contains good magnesium content which is considered to be a good antimicrobial agent.

The Power of Thermosonication on Quality Preservation and Listeria Control of Blueberry Juice

Due to the increasing consumer demand for healthy, beneficial foods, natural fruit juices have gained popularity for their rich nutritional value and appealing flavor. However, traditional thermal processing can compromise these quality attributes. This study investigates using pulsed thermosonication, a novel mild thermal processing method, on Listeria innocua inactivation in blueberry juice, chosen for its high phenolic and anthocyanin content. Ultrasonication was applied at 60% and 100% amplitudes combined with heat treatments at 45 °C and 55 °C and compared to control heat treatments. The Weibull model effectively described the inactivation kinetics, showing that the thermosonicated samples required significantly shorter times (1 and 25 min) for a 5-log reduction compared to the heated samples (10 and 60 min). While pH, total soluble solids, and water activity remained unaffected, color parameters improved, and the best retention of phenolics and anthocyanins was observed at 100% amplitude and 45 °C. Rheological properties were unchanged. The findings demonstrate that thermosonication at milder temperatures is more effective than conventional heat treatment for microbial inactivation and quality retention in blueberry juice, suggesting it is a superior processing method for preserving fruit juices’ nutritional and sensory attributes.

High definition 3D models of small legume seed: a close up application to support ancient plant genomics

Abstract. Legume seeds are essential for nutrition and play crucial roles in food security, climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainability. Among them, the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the most widely cultivated and vital to the food value chain. Originating in Mesoamerica and independently domesticated there and in the Andes about 8,000 years ago, common beans have adapted to diverse environments globally following the Columbian exchange. Ancient DNA (aDNA) sequencing offers insights into the bean’s adaptation and evolution, but traditional methods struggle with detailed 3D phenotypic analysis due to the beans’ small size and the destructive nature of aDNA extraction. Expensive high-detail optical instruments are not commonly available in genetic labs. This research proposes macro-photogrammetry as a low-cost technique for creating detailed 3D digital replicas of beans. By using samples from archaeological sites in northern Peru, this method preserves phenotypic information despite the destruction of physical samples during DNA extraction. The study details the process of capturing high-detail images with specialized equipment to build a digital phenotype library, preserving the morphological features of ancient beans for further study and future comparison with modern varieties.

Comparative Study on the Proximate Composition and Amino Acid Levels in Chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius) and Wood Ear (Auricularia auricula) Mushroom Samples

Mushrooms have been consumed by mankind for millennia. They are macrofungi with a distinctive fruiting body which can be hypogeous or epigeous, large enough to be seen with unaided eyes. They are not widely consumed due to lack of information on its nutritive value. Therefore, this research was carried out to compare the proximate gross energy composition as well as amino acids levels in two selected edible mushrooms (Cantharellus cibarius and Auricularia auricula). Fully matured species of Chanterelle mushroom (Cantherellus cibarius) and Wood ear mushroom (Auricularia auricula) were collected from different parts of Southern and Northern Cross River; Ikom and Bekwara precisely. The collected samples were air dried for 5 days and then stored in transparent polythene bag for analysis. The dried and stored mushroom were pounded to powdered form and then subjected to amino acid analysis using isocratic HPLC and proximate analysis for proximate composition using the standard methods of Association of Official Analytical Chemist (AOAC). The results of this research showed that chanterelle mushroom has high concentration of amino acids compared to Wood ear mushroom. However, there was significant differences (p<0.05) in the levels of isoleucine in both mushrooms. There were no significant differences in the proximate composition and gross energy levels of both mushroom species. Some of the amino acids detected in both mushrooms were: methionine, threonine, isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, valine, tryptophan, histidine, arginine, aspartic acid, glycine, alanine and glutamic acid. Based on the findings of this study, the two edible mushrooms were observed to have appreciable levels of gross energy and amino acids. However, Chanterelle mushroom had higher protein composition than wood ear. Hence, it can be concluded that Chanterelle mushroom has greater nutritive value and more suitable for consumption.

Growth performance and enzymatic activities in monosex tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) supplemented with Najas indica along with the compound identification of the extracts.

Recent research has looked at various macroalgae species as dietary components or feed additives for a variety of fish species due to their nutritional value. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of Najas indica, a macroalgae extract, on the growth performance, proximate composition, and metabolic activities of monosex tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), while also isolating the compounds present. Three distinct solvents (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol) were used to extract bioactive compounds from a coarse powder of macroalgae after drying and grinding, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was used to detect bioactive compounds. The extracts were combined with commercial feed (0.4%) and applied to the treatment with three replications and a control containing 50 fingerlings per tank for 5 weeks. The findings indicated a significant increase in the final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR), and survival rate among the treated fish, whereas the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed to decrease in comparison to the control group. Significantly higher levels of protein and lipids were found in treated fish, whereas moisture and ash levels were significantly lower compared to control fish. In treated fish, the digestive enzyme amylase was significantly higher, but the protease enzyme reduced significantly. The antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) was significantly higher in the treatment group, whereas the catalase (CAT) enzyme did not differ significantly. A total of 47 bioactive compounds were identified in N. indica, among which the prominent compounds included n-hexadecanoic acid, neophytadiene, phytyl palmitate, d-mannitol, and heptanoic acid. The results obtained from this study indicate that the utilization of N. indica macroalgae extract has the potential to serve as an additional dietary component, therefore, enhancing the growth performance and metabolic functions of fish.