Chemical Compositions of Leaf Protein Concentrate and Bagasse of Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) Leaves obtained from three Different Locations in Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract

To optimize food and feed production in Nigeria and meet protein demands, viable options need to be explored. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the chemical composition of Pride of Barbados leaf protein concentrate and bagasse. Freshly harvested Pride of Barbados leaves were obtained from three different locations in Benin City and processed for its leaf protein concentrate and bagasse using heat coagulated method. Pride of Barbados leaf protein concentrate and bagasse were analysed for proximate and mineral compositions using standard analytical procedures. Proximate analysis revealed that the dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre, ash, and nitrogen free extract contents of Pride of Barbados leaf protein concentrates were 91.17%, 31.12%, 8.33%, 7.92%, 8.2%, and 35.3%, respectively. Pride of Barbados bagasse had a lower crude protein (9.22%) but higher fibre content (10.72%) compared to those of Pride of Barbados leaf protein concentrate. Na, K, Ca, and Mg were the most abundant minerals in Pride of Barbados leaf protein concentrate and bagasse. Chromium was very low in the leaf protein concentrate and bagasse. Proximate compositions were significantly (p<0.05) affected by location. Pride of Barbados leaf protein concentrate and bagasse can be used as livestock feed ingredient.