Variations in nutrient composition of oyster nuts (Telfairia pedata) across different agro-climatic conditions

Abstract

In sub-Saharan Africa, nutrient deficiency remains a challenge. The challenge is partly due to the underutilization of available local nutrient sources and failure to optimize nutrients based on agro-climatic conditions. This study investigated the nutrient composition and variations in the underutilized oyster nuts (Telfairia pedata) from different sites and elevation levels encompassing different agro-climatic conditions. Fats were the most abundant contents of the nuts with 68%, followed by 25% protein, 5% carbohydrates, and 2% ash. Fatty acid contents were dominated by linoleic acid (47%), while magnesium was 150 mg/100 g, the most abundant mineral element. Protein and fat contents increased significantly with declining elevations, while sites did not show any significant effects, except for oleic acids. These were higher in Tanga compared to Kilimanjaro and Arusha sites. In contrast, linoleic acids and minerals such as magnesium (Mg) and phosphorus (P) decreased significantly in low elevations. Other nutrients such as carbohydrates, potassium (K), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), palmitic acid, and stearic acid were not significantly affected by site nor elevations. Our results highlight that, particularly in lower elevations associated with high temperature and high precipitation, oyster nuts' quality is optimized and can contribute to reducing micronutrient deficiency and improve local communities' nutritional status in sub-Saharan Africa.

Proximate Analysis of <i>Telfairia occidentalis</i> (fluted pumpkin) and <i>Telfairia pedata</i> (oyster nut) leaves consumed in Katsina Metropolis: a comparative study

“…This may be attributable to the plant's geographical location and the research's analytical accuracy. However, the 3.09±0.93 percentage moisture content of Telfairia pedata (Oyster Nut) seeds obtained by Mwakasege et al [15] is about five-fold less than what was obtained in this study. The result shows that the leaves significantly differ in percentage moisture content at (P < 0.05).…”

“…Additionally, when subjected to roasting, these seeds exhibit a flavour reminiscent of almonds. Telfairia pedata is a native forest food plant in the Uluguru North and West Usambara Mountain regions, known for providing edible nuts and seeds [9]. The seeds of Telfairia pedata are utilised in tropical East Africa for oil production and are subjected to roasting and consumption.…”

Nutrients, phenolics, fatty acids and mineral composition of <i>Telfairia</i> <i>pedata</i> (SIMS) hook seed kernels obtained from Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

“…Most phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant activities (Kumar et al, 2016). Isaiah et al, (2021), reported the physico-chemical and antioxidant properties of Kenyan T. pedata seeds extract, and Mwakasege et al, (2021a), also reported the nutritional variability of the seeds of T. pedata collected from the agro forests of Kilimanjaro Mountain, Arusha and Tanga. This paper, however, gives a detailed analysis of the nutritional, minerals, phenolics and fatty acids compositions of T. pedata seed kernels collected from Chekereni, Kilimanjaro, thus, revealing their potential in industrial development and health maintenance.…”