Nutritional composition of the African locust bean (Parkia biglobosa) fruit pulp

Abstract

Nutritional and anti-nutritional composition of the African locust bean (Parkia biglobosa) fruit pulp were determined using standard methods. Results showed a moisture content of 8.41%, protein 6.56%, fat 1.80%, crude fibre 11.75%, ash. 4.18% and carbohydrate of 67.30%. Sugar content was found to be 9.00 °Brix; total caroteniods, 49,175ug/ 100g and ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) of 191.20mg/100g. Anti-nutritional factors/toxins analyzes showed a phytic acid content of 60.00mg/ l00g; crude saponins, 17.80mg/ 100g; tannins, 81.00mg/100g; total phenols, 204.60mg/ 100g and hydrocyanic acid (HCN) content of 17.30mg/ 100g.

Keywords: Nutritional, anti-nutritional contents, toxins, African locust bean, fruit pulp.

Nigerian Food Journal Vol. 25 (1) 2007: pp. 190-196