Structural and digestive properties of tiger nut starch-lauric acid complexes: Insights from multiscale characterization.

Tracing the geographical origin of tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L) in China based on stable isotopes and mineral elements combined with multi-modal recognition.

Background: The beverage industry has experienced a substantial surge in the development of composite milk alternatives (CMAs), precipitated by shifting dietary preferences and specific nutritional requirements. However, the increasing utilization of these alternatives in infant nutrition has prompted critical inquiries regarding their nutritional adequacy and bioequivalence to standardized formulas. Aims: This study aimed to perform a comparative evaluation of the proximate, phytochemical, vitamin, and mineral profiles of a novel formulated CMA (plant-animal-based, formulated using soybean, tiger nut, peanut, cashew nut, dry fish, crayfish, and dates) against a conventional commercial infant formula (NAN). Methods: Raw materials were processed, and homogenized in standardized proportions. Analytical characterization was conducted using established biochemical methods for proximate analysis and micro-/macro-nutrient quantification. Statistical significance was determined using a two-tailed unpaired Student's t-test, assuming equal variance, with the threshold for significance set at α = 0.05. Results: Distinct compositional divergence was observed between the formulated CMA and the commercial control. The CMA exhibited significantly higher concentrations (p < 0.05) of crude fiber and moisture, as well as elevated levels of bioactive phytochemicals, including phenols, flavonoids, and lycopene. Additionally, the CMA contained a more diverse array of antinutritional factors (tannin, phytate, and alkaloids), and high concentrations of vitamins B2 and C. Conversely, NAN exhibited significantly higher carbohydrate and ash content (p < 0.05), resulting in a superior total caloric density, alongside higher concentrations of vitamins B1 and B9. While most mineral concentrations were comparable, the CMA displayed significantly higher levels of sodium, cobalt, and zinc. Conclusions: The formulated CMA demonstrated a nutritional profile that compares favorably with conventional infant formula in several key metrics. While these findings suggest significant nutritional potential, further optimization and rigorous safety evaluations are imperative before this formulation can be recommended for infant consumption. Keywords: Plant-Based; Composite; Milk Alternative; Nutritional Profile.

In some parts of the world, Cyperus esculentus L. is widely used as a healthy food for both humans and animals due to their nutritional and functional properties. Current research and reviews on this plant have focused mainly on organoleptic properties, phytochemical compositions, oil content, biochemical activities, and nutritional values. The medicinal properties of Tiger nut are seldom discussed, although its medicinal l.se well known in folklore activities. To explore the medicinal properties of Tiger nut, this review tries to investigate the potential anticancer properties of components issued from Tiger nut by reviewing the existing literature in the field. Based on the evidence from the review, it is recommended that there is a need for further investigation into the proposed anticancer properties of Tiger nut.

Natural and peeled tiger nut tubers, as well as commercially available tiger nut oil (yellow variety, Valencia, Spain), were analyzed. Antioxidant activity was measured spectrophotometrically using the DPPH method. The content of TPC was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. Fatty acid composition was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization detection, and these data were used to calculate the PUFA/SFA (P/S) ratio, atherogenicity (AI), thrombogenicity (TI) index, and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (h/H) ratio. Macro- and microelement contents were quantified using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and total THQ (TTHQ) were calculated to assess potential health risks. Natural tiger nut tubers exhibited substantially higher antioxidant activity and TPC compared to peeled tubers, suggesting that the peel is the primary reservoir of phenolic compounds. Strong antioxidant activity was observed in tiger nut oil (64.82 ± 2.59 mg TEAC/L). Oleic acid (C18:1cis n-9) was identified as the predominant FA across all samples, thus contributing positively to favorable health lipid indices (P/S > 0.50, low AI and TI, high h/H ratio). Potassium was the most abundant macroelement in natural and peeled tiger nut tubers. The overall trend of microelement levels in these samples was as follows: Al > Fe > Zn > Cu > Sr > Mn > Li > Ba > Se > As > Cr. All THQ and TTHQ values were below 1, indicating no appreciable health risk associated with consumption. These findings support the use of tiger nuts as a functionally valuable ingredient in health-oriented food products.

A potential approach for targeting change of metabolic characteristics of the tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) via different probiotics fermentation.

Bioactive-driven modulation of structural, rheological, and functional properties in tiger nut–based frozen food matrices enriched with selected fruit pulps

Background Cyperus esculentus a perennial sedge, has been cultivated since ancient times for its nutritious and versatile tubers, which are used in cooking, traditional medicine, and various industries. Despite its potential, the crop remains underutilized in Togo and is grown in limited areas. Moreover, there is a lack of information on its genetic diversity, cropping systems, uses, and the impact of climate change on its productivity; factors essential for effective breeding and sustainable cultivation. This study aimed to document and compare existing knowledge on the uses and production systems of tiger nuts, as well as tiger nut producers’ perceptions of climate change and its impact on tiger nut cultivation in two regions of Togo with contrasting climatic conditions.MethodsA total of 206 tiger nut producers from six ethnic groups were selected across 26 villages located in the Savanes region (Sudanian climate) and the Plateaux region (Guinean climate) were selected following the snowball method during a survey conducted from July to September 2023. Data on tiger nut uses, diversity, production systems, and producers’ perceptions of climate change and its impact on the species’ productivity were collected using participatory rural appraisal methods. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Fisher’s Exact Test to examine the relationship between region and sociodemographic factors, and multinomial logistic regression to identify which sociodemographic characteristics influence tiger nut growers’ perceptions of climate change and their views on its impact on production.ResultsA significant difference was observed in the gender distribution of tiger nut producers between the two regions. In the Savanes region, most producers were male (75%), whereas in the Plateaux region, most were female (84%). The area dedicated to tiger nut production also varied significantly between the regions. In the Savanes region, no more than 0.25 ha was allocated to the crop, whereas in the Plateaux region, 58% of producers dedicated more than 0.25 ha of their land to tiger nut cultivation. Seven distinct uses were identified: tuber consumption, commercialization, medicinal applications, soil fertilization, traditional beverage preparation, weed control, and livestock feeding. The last three were reported exclusively in the Savanes region. Eight major constraints were identified across the two regions. The most critical in the Plateaux region was harvesting difficulties, while in the Savanes region it was pest attacks. Regarding climate change, chi-square tests showed a significant association between climatic zones and farmers’ perceptions, as well as between regions and the reported effects of climate change on tiger nut cultivation (P < 0.001). Perceived climate change indicators included irregular rainfall, delayed onset of rains, drought spells, and early rainfall. Reported effects on the crop included reduced yields, abnormal growth patterns, premature yellowing of leaves, seedling desiccation, and small tubers.ConclusionThe ethno-ecological knowledge captured in this study provides a foundational resource for the sustainable management and conservation of tiger nut, and for the development of effective breeding strategies in Togo.

In Senegal, agriculture is the primary source of employment, engaging nearly 70% of the active population. However, the sector faces challenges, such as high post-harvest losses and the degradation of natural resources, which hinder its performance. To promote sustainable development and enhance food and nutritional security, it is essential to encourage the cultivation of neglected and underutilized species with high nutritional value. This study aimed to assess the agromorphological characteristics of various tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) provenances grown under Senegalese environmental conditions. The plant material consisted of mature, dry tubers from ten ecotypes originating from Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Benin, and Senegal. The experiments were conducted in a net house over a period of four months, during which various morphological growth parameters were assessed every 15 days. After the growth period, the plants were harvested, and different agronomic traits were recorded. The findings revealed significant agromorphological variability among the different tiger nut provenances. All measured traits, including plant height, chlorophyll content, tiller number, and shoot and root dry biomass, as well as tuber number, weight, size, and shape, showed considerable differences. For instance, ecotypes 2MALI and 1NIGE had the highest and lowest tuber dry weights, respectively, at 63.75g and 7.02g. Principal component analysis further highlighted strong correlations between certain parameters, such as the number of tillers and tubers. Cluster analysis categorized the C. esculentus provenances into three groups based on phenotypic similarity: Group I (1BENI, 2BENI, 2NIGE), Group II (1NIGE), and Group III (1BURK, 1MALI, 2SENE, 2BURK, 2MALI, 1SENE). These results indicate a considerable level of agromorphological variability among tiger nut provenances, providing a valuable foundation for scaling up the cultivation of this neglected and underutilized crop in Senegal.

This research determined the mineral contents and the anti-nutritional elements in the fermented dairy products of goat milk, cow milk, and plant-based yoghurt such as soy yoghurt, tiger nut yoghurt and coconut yoghurt. The study reveal that the fermentation improve the bioavailability of minerals in the plant-based yoghurt by mortifying phytates, cyanide, oxalate and Saponin content in the products. The plant based yoghurts have various levels of anti-nutritional factor values for SMY have highest phytate content of 18.99 ± 0.09 mg/100g and coconut milk yoghurt (CNY) have the lowest content 1.96 ± 0.07 mg/100g, CNY 90.29±1.21 mg/100g with highest content of cyanide and SMY 7.70 ± 0.40 mg/100g with lowest content, CNY 90.29 ± 1.22 mg/100g with highest value of oxalate and soy milk yoghurt (SMY) with lowest value of 0.03±0.01 mg/100g . For saponin CNY 67.51±0.47 mg/100g with highest value and TNY with least value of 0.05±0.01 mg/100g while for dairy yoghurt anti-nutritional factors value cow milk yoghurt (CMY) values is higher than goat milk yoghurt (GMY) values. The findings reveal that plant-based and animal based yoghurts have differing levels of mineral content in which certain samples like CMY, GMY and SMY are having high levels of calcium 16.05 ± 0.02 mg/100g, magnesium 12.62 ± 0.06 mg/100g and potassium 192 ± 4.55 mg/100g content.

Impact of fermentation and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the bioaccessibility of phytochemicals and antioxidant capacity of tiger nut, carob and rice beverages.

Abstract This study assessed the effects of incorporating varying levels (0, 10, 20, and 30 g/kg) of tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L) into rabbit diets on the growth, reproductive performance, and blood characteristics of three rabbit breeds: New Zealand White, Hyla Max, and Dutch Belted. A total of 420 rabbits (270 does and 150 bucks), originating from 48 mature individuals aged 20–22 weeks and weighing between 2.24 and 2.50 kg, were randomly allocated to the four diets in a 3×4 factorial design. Growth traits such as body weight and linear measurements were taken at 35 days post-kindling. Reproductive performance data included gestation length, litter size at birth and weaning, individual and litter weights, and pre-weaning mortality. Blood samples were collected for haematological and biochemical analyses. Results indicated that dietary inclusion of tiger nut at 20–30 g/kg improved growth and reproductive performance, enhanced milk production and composition, and did not adversely affect health indicators. These findings support the use of tiger nut as a beneficial dietary supplement in rabbit production.

Assessment of tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus) cake as feed ingredient for largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

Plant-based foods and beverages are culturally adaptable; they offer healthier dietary options and have the potential to regulate blood glucose response. Existing research has largely focused on liquid plant-based beverages, with minimal attention to solid forms. This study aims to fill this gap by determining the nutritional profile and phytochemical compositions of powdered plant-based beverages, and their effects on blood glucose response. Soybean, the primary component of the beverage, was processed by two separate methods (toasted and fermented-boiled). Samples included four blends (TS1, TS2, FBS1, and FBS2) of ginger, tiger nuts, dates, and soybean. The proximate, micronutrients, amino acid profile, phytochemical compositions and fungal count of the beverages were determined using standard methods. Consumer acceptability of eight beverages, obtained from 20g and 50g dilutions of each sample in 250ml of water, as well as the glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL), were analyzed. Data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. The study observed high protein (41.3-46.2%) and fiber (19.22-26.05%) contents, with significantly high protein levels (p&lt;0.05) in beverages with toasted soybean (TS1 and TS2). The beverages had relatively low levels of moisture (1.29-2.09%) and fungal counts (6-10 log10 sfu/g). High amounts of vitamins C and E were found compared to iron, zinc, and calcium levels. The beverages contained varying amounts of amino acids, with highest compositions found in TS1 (5g-Ginger:25g-Tiger nuts: 10g-Dates:60g -Soyabean). Phytochemical composition of the drinks ranged as follows: saponin (5.59-9.99g/100g), alkaloids (5.26-7.52g/100g), tannin (1.65-2.72g/100g), phytates (1.65-2.62g/100g), flavonoids (2.95-4.96g/100g), and carotenoids (2.39-4.47g/100g). With the exceptions of sample TS2-1 (4.47) and FBS2-2 (4.27), the beverages were generally liked by the test panel members. The blend with 60% fermented-boiled soybean at 50g dilution concentration (FBS1-2) had the highest score, though not significantly different (p&gt;0.05) from TS1-1, TS1-2, FBS1-1, FBS2-1, and TS2-1 samples. The glycemic index (20.04-31.52mmol/L) and glycemic load (10.02-15.76) of the beverages were relatively low. Our study shows that the formulated powdered plant-based beverages, can be a valuable addition to the diet of Nigerians, offering not only nutritional benefits but also a low glycemic index and load.

Harvesting is one of the major problems encountered by tiger nut farmers in Nigeria. Manual harvesting system is the most commonly used method. This process is costly, labour intensive and time-consuming. The process does not also give farmers adequate returns to enable them to break even due to huge losses encountered. The objective of this study was to design, construct and evaluate a hand-pushed harvester that would eliminate the challenges being faced by small and medium tiger nut farmers during harvesting. Materials selection for constructing the harvester were based on their durability and availability, affordability and ease of replacement if damaged. They include mild steel (3 mm, 5 mm), 30 mm galvanized steel hollow pipe, 10 mm diameter steel rod, and 400 mm steel tyre. The developed harvester was evaluated at the experimental farm of the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR). Results of the study show that the average field capacity ranges from 0.28 – 0.33 ha/h while the average field efficiency was between 77.78 – 80.49% depending on operating speed, moisture content and other properties of the soil. No field damage was recorded when the harvester was used as against an approximate 10.50% damage recorded in the manual harvesting method.

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent widely used for treating various cancers, but is known for its detrimental side effects, including reproductive toxicity in males. The aim of this study to the effects of hydroethanol extracts of tiger nuts (Cyperus esculentus) and date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) against Doxorubicin (DOX) induced reproductive damage in male Wistar rats. A total of 35 rats were divided into seven groups with 5 rats per group and subjected to DOX-induced reproductive toxicity (15 mg/kg for three days), followed by administration of different doses of the plant extracts, for 27 days. On the 31st day animals were sacrificed and samples collected for the Biochemical analysis of reproductive hormone levels (FSH, LH, testosterone), sperm quality, and testicular histology. The DOX-only group showed significant reductions in sperm count, motility, hormone levels, and antioxidant status, with increased lipid peroxidation and abnormal testicular histology. Conversely, groups treated with tiger nuts and date palm extracts, particularly at high doses and in combination, demonstrated marked improvements in these parameters. Co-administration significantly restored hormone levels, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, improved sperm morphology and count, and reversed DOX-induced histopathological alterations. The findings confirm that tiger nuts and date palm possess strong antioxidant and fertility-enhancing properties capable of mitigating DOX-induced reproductive toxicity.

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) is a cash crop that is very rich in nutrients. Knowledge of the agronomic performance of genotypes cultivated for broad adaptation in growing environments is necessary. The objective of this study was to identify high-performance genotypes in Burkina Faso. Thus, 42 genotypes were evaluated using an Alpha Lattice design of 21 genotypes × 2 blocks in four replicates during the 2021-2022 growing season. The combined analysis of variance showed significant effects of genotype, environment, and genotype x environment interaction for most of the measured variables. The representation of the effect of genotypes and the genotype x environment interaction revealed high-performing and specific genotypes in each environment. For the number of leafy shoots, genotypes K35J and B45J have performed well in environment 2 (E2) and N1MC have performed well in environment 1 (E1). For tuber yield, B44MC and K25MC performed best in E2 and K35J and K28J in E1. These genotypes could be promoted for the production of tiger nut in the Sudanese and Sudano-Sahelian zones of Burkina Faso, taking into account the needs of producers and consumers.

Cyperus esculentus L., commonly known as Yellow Nutsedge or Tiger Nut, belongs to the Sedge family (Cyperaceae), which is widely distributed in tropical and temperate regions around the world. The species is particularly noted for its underground tuber, which is rich in starch and oil, and can be used for both food and industrial purposes. However, cultivated C. esculentus rarely flowers in the field, and when it does, flowering is often accompanied by sterility, significantly hindering the development of superior varieties through sexual hybridization. Our investigation into the causes of pollen abortion in C. esculentus yielded several key findings. Initially, we observed pollen abortion within the anthers using Alexander’s red staining and starch-iodide staining techniques. Further examination through semi-thin sections of the anthers revealed that, although the pollen appeared normal during the pachytene stage, the pollen failed to stain blue in later developmental stages, indicating abnormal development. This was followed by vacuolation, collapse, and degradation of the pollen, ultimately resulting in abortion. Additionally, we monitored chromosome behavior throughout meiosis and observed premature chromosome separation during metaphase II, leading to disarray in the subsequent pseudomonad phase. Chromosomal karyotype analysis and ploidy predictions suggested that the triploid nature of C. esculentus contributes to meiotic disorders, which may explain the phenomenon of pollen abortion. These findings provide valuable insights into the reproductive challenges faced by this species and may inform future breeding efforts aimed at overcoming its sterility.

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) is widely recognized as both an oil crop and a high-quality forage. However, the comprehensive utilization of tiger nut meal (TNM) remains underexplored. This study investigates the potential of solid-state fermentation with selected microorganisms to convert TNM into a high-nutritional-value animal feed. After evaluation, fermentation of TNM with Saccharomyces cerevisiae GLLB−3, or the mixture of S. cerevisiae GLLB−3 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SCTM−1 (EMIX group) improves the nutrient profiles of TNM. Post-fermentation, the contents of crude protein, crude fiber, total phosphorus, and amino acids increased. Especially, the crude protein content in TNM fermented with S. cerevisiae GLLB−3 increased by 34.71%, whereas TNM fermented with EMIX exhibited a 27.77% increase. Additionally, essential amino acids except histidine showed significant increases, ranging from 6.82% to 119.49%. The fermentation not only enhances TNM’s nutritional values but also contributes to a more balanced amino acid composition suitable for animal feed production. Simultaneously, fermentation of TNM with two Aspergillus strains changes amino acid and other nutrient profiles. The analysis of the fermented products revealed significant increases in the contents of crude protein, crude fiber, total phosphorus, and amino acids. Notably, the levels of eight essential amino acids were substantially elevated, indicating a marked improvement in the nutritional quality of the fermented products as compared to the raw materials. This study demonstrates probiotic fermentation can effectively enhance the nutritional profile of TNM, highlighting it as a promising approach for the comprehensive utilization of tiger nut by-products.

Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) is rapidly emerging as a model crop for sustainable food systems for its exceptional nutritional profile as well as the underexplored potential for whole-plant valorization. Previous reviews have cataloged the general composition and application of tiger nut, this review would like to provide a novel and systematic synthesis focusing on three groundbreaking fronts: firstly, the unique molecular regulatory network governing high oleic acid accumulation in tubers. Secondly, the advanced green extraction technologies surpass conventional methods in efficiency and sustainability for obtaining high-quality oil, starch, and protein, while mitigating nutrient degradation. Thirdly, a "zero-waste" utilization framework, detailing how by-products (press cake) could be transformed into high-value products was scarcely integrated into existing literature. This review integrates cutting-edge insights on starch nano-modification, protein functionalization, and the synergistic health effects of bioactive compounds. It not only summarizes existing knowledge, but also charts a strategic roadmap for future research on tiger nuts, emphasizing molecular breeding, circular bioeconomy, and evidence-based health claim validation to unlock the full industrial potential of tiger nuts.