Proximate and Mineral Elements Analysis of Ziziphus mauritiana Fruits

Abstract

The fruits of Ziziphus mauritiana plant were subjected to proximate and mineral elements analysis. The results of the proximate analysis revealed the presence of moisture contents (5.16 ± 0.29 mg/100g), ash contents (6.16 ± 0.29 mg/100g), crude lipid (62.00 ± 0.50 mg/100g), crude fiber (1.67 ± 0.29 mg/100g), crude protein (6.18 ± 0.13 mg/100g), as well as available carbohydrate (83.98 ± 0.46 mg/100g) in dry weights. The values of the mineral elements analysis conducted were evaluated as follows: sodium (7.67 ± 0.138 mg/100g), potassium (306.67 ± 11.55 mg/100g), calcium (0.033 ± 0.003 mg/100g), magnesium (0.16 ± 0.005 mg/100g), and phosphorus (1.582 ± 3.34 mg/100g) in dry weight. The results of the mineral analysis conducted on Ziziphus mauritiana fruits revealed the presence of higher potassium and sodium values, while the least value was obtained in calcium. The proximate composition showed the fruits as having higher values of crude protein and lipid contents, while the crude fiber had the least value. The high values of potassium and sodium in the fruit make it a good source for the formation of bones and teeth, especially in growing children. Ziziphus mauritiana fruit contains important mineral elements that could enhance proper metabolic activity and thereby improve health standards if properly utilized.