Nutritional composition and protein value of the baru (Dipteryx alataVog.) almond from the Brazilian Savanna

Abstract

The baru almond has a high nutrient density and high content of quality protein. Furthermore, the lipid and protein contents and amino acid profile of the baru almond are representative of edible seeds and similar to those of true nuts. This almond can be used as a complementary source of protein and as an excellent option for a healthy diet.

Proteins of Bacuri almonds: nutritional value and in vivo digestibility

“…The extraction of oils and fats from the whole flour resulted in a flour with high content of proteins, close to that of bocaiuva almond flour (41.34%) (Hiane et al, 2006) and higher than that of baru almond (23.78%) (Fernandes et al, 2010) and sapucaia nuts (20,47%) (Denadai et al, 2007).…”

“…In addition, the investigation of the chemical composition of native foods contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between nutrition and biodiversity, especially regarding production and processing of food for human consumption (Fernandes et al, 2010), and that between nutrition and human health since the consumption of Brazilian nuts have shown health benefits with respect to cardiovascular diseases and cancers (Yang, 2009). …”

“…Brazilian Cerrado almonds have been widely studied; and some such as baru (Fernandes et al, 2010;Guimarães et al, 2012;Czedera et al, 2012) and the bocaiuva (Hiane et al, 2006) have high content of quality protein. Bacuri (Scheelea phalerata Mart.…”

Quality of granola prepared with dried caju-do-cerrado (Anacardium othonianum Rizz) and baru almonds (Dipteryx alata Vog)

“…The ash content of the CG was possibly influenced by the higher calcium content of the Brazil nut (Welna et al 2008) and the higher amounts of sodium and zinc in the cashew nut (Fagbemi 2008), compared with the baru almond in the CFG (Fernandes et al 2010). The different mineral contents of the nuts and dried fruit used in each of the granolas was probably also reflected in the higher levels of phosphorus, magnesium and potassium in the CG.…”

“…The baru (Dipteryx alata Vog) contains an almond (seed) in which proteins predominate (258.1 g/kg), with considerable essential amino acid content (403.2 g/kg of protein). The almond is also high in lipids (419.7 g/kg), with an emphasis on unsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid (483.7 g/kg of lipids), as well as fiber, vitamins and minerals (Roesler et al 2007;Correa et al 2008;Fernandes et al 2010;Freitas and Naves 2010).…”