Analysis of the Proximate Composition, Anti-Nutrients and Mineral Content of Maerua Crassifolia Leaves

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the proximate composition, anti-nutrient and the mineral content of Maerua crassifolia leaves. Proximate analysis was performed using standard AOAC methods, mineral contents were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry while the anti-nutrients were analysed using standard methods. The results revealed that the leaves had moisture content of 62.00 %, ash content of 12.17± 0.47 g/100 g and crude protein content of 15.17 ± 0.02 g/100 g. The value of the minerals ranged between 75.33 ± 0.05 mg/kg for potassium and 2.88 mg/kg for magnesium. For the heavy metals, zinc had the highest value of 0.22 ± 0.02 μg/mg. The sodium: potassium ratio was calculated to be 0.92 ±0.00. All the anti-nutrients studied were below the lethal doses recommended. The results obtained indicate that the leaf will be a good source of nourishment if properly utilized.

Keywords: proximate composition, mineral content, anti-nutrients, Maerua crassifolia