Qualitative determination of chemical and nutritional composition of Parkia biglobosa (Jacq.) Benth

Abstract

Qualitative determination of chemical and nutritional composition of Parkia biglobosa seeds an underexploited crop seed in Nigeria was carried out. Seeds of P. biglobosa were found to be rich in lipid, protein, carbohydrate, soluble sugars and ascorbic acid. The cotyledon was very nutritious, has less fibre and ash contents when compared to that of testa. The oil content was suitable for consumption since it contains very low acid and iodine contents. The oil has very high saponification value and hence would be useful in soap industry. Some simple reducing sugars, including lactose, were identified.

Key words: Parkia bioglobosa, Qalitative determination, Industrial use, Saponification, underexploited.
African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 4 (8), pp. 812-815