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Chemical evaluation of waste from Thaumatococcus danielli (Benth) processing
B O Elemo1, O S Oladimeji, O B Adu
1Biochemistry Department, Lagos State University, Apapa, Nigeria.
Plant Foods for Human Nutrition (Dordrecht, Netherlands)
|January 26, 2000
Summary
Thaumatococcus danielli (Benth) fruit pericarp and seeds are rich in nutrients, with high lipid and protein content, respectively. This suggests their potential as valuable livestock feed ingredients.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Food Science
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Thaumatococcus danielli (Benth) is a tropical plant known for its fruit.
- Understanding the nutritional composition of its byproducts is crucial for sustainable resource utilization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the proximate composition, lipid characteristics, and tannin content of Thaumatococcus danielli (Benth) pericarp and seeds.
- To evaluate the potential of T. danielli waste as a livestock feed ingredient.
Main Methods:
- Collection of T. danielli fruits from three different batches.
- Determination of proximate composition (moisture, ash, lipid, protein, carbohydrate, fiber) on a dry weight basis.
- Partial characterization of lipid extracts and determination of tannin content.
Main Results:
- Pericarp showed higher moisture, ash, and lipid content compared to seeds.
- Seeds had higher crude protein and total carbohydrate content than the pericarp.
- Both pericarp and seeds exhibited high dietary fiber; starch was significantly higher in seeds.
- Tannin content was notable in both parts, with seeds having higher levels.
- Extracted oil was light-yellow, slightly solid, with low unsaturation and high free fatty acids.
Conclusions:
- Thaumatococcus danielli (Benth) pericarp and seeds possess significant nutritional value.
- The high nutrient content, particularly protein and fiber, indicates potential for use in livestock feed formulations.
- Further research into processing methods could optimize the utilization of T. danielli waste.