A comparative evaluation of the nutrient and anti-nutrient compositions of four pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) varieties

Abstract

Background: Pigeon pea is a rich source of protein, fibre, minerals and vitamins but wide variations exist in the nutrient and anti-nutrient contents. Identification of good quality pigeon pea is paramount to its increased utilization and improved child nutrition. Objectives: This study evaluated and compared the nutrient and anti-nutrient compositions of four Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) varieties. Methods: Five hundred grams of pigeon pea seeds [Iseyin pea (dark brown), NSWCC 34A (red-brown), NSWCC 34 (light red-brown) and 7D (cream)] were cleaned and analysed for proximate, mineral and anti-nutrient composition using standard procedures. Significant differences were detected using ANOVA and means were separated using Least Significant Differences at p<0.05. Results: The ranges of crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre and carbohydrate contents of the pigeon pea varieties were 20.95-22.61%, 1.43-3.35%, 2.10-3.90% and 59.72-64.69%, respectively. The protein (22.61%) and ash (5.41%) contents of NSWCC 34A were significantly higher compared to others. The four pigeon pea varieties differed significantly in fat, fibre and carbohydrate contents at p<0.001. Significantly higher calcium (121.40mg/100g), iron (5.20mg/100g) and zinc (4.70%) contents were found in 7D compared to the other varieties. 7D variety had the lowest values of tannin (61.5mg/100g), phytate (802.5mg/100g), oxalate (659mg/100g), saponin (271mg/100g) and polyphenol (389.5 mg/100g). Iseyin pigeon pea had the highest tannin (303.5mg/100g) and polyphenol (4635mg/100g) contents (p<0.001) while NSWCC 34A variety had the highest phytate (2257.5mg/100g), oxalate (1191.5mg/100g) and saponin (2299.5mg/100g) contents. Conclusion: 7D variety of pigeon pea was the best among the four varieties and recommended for use in complementary food production.

Keywords: Pigeon pea, nutrient, anti-nutrients, underutilized legume