Nutritional profile of phytococktail from trans-Himalayan plants

Area of Science:

• Nutritional science
• Phytochemistry
• Food science

Background:

• High-altitude regions like the Indian Trans-Himalayan cold desert face limited access to fresh produce.
• This scarcity necessitates exploring alternative, nutrient-dense food sources for local populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the comprehensive nutritional profile of a phytococktail.
• To assess its potential as a valuable nutritional supplement in challenging environments.

Main Methods:

• Vitamins were quantified using rapid resolution liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (RRLC-MS/MS).
• Amino acids were analyzed via reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC).
• Fatty acids were determined by gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID), and minerals by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES).

Main Results:

• The phytococktail is a principal source of Vitamin E and B-complex vitamins.
• It contains eight essential and eleven non-essential amino acids, with L-methionine, L-phenylalanine, L-lysine, L-leucine, and L-histidine being dominant.
• Key fatty acids include palmitoleic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid, with palmitic acid as the primary saturated fatty acid. It also contains essential dietary minerals.

Conclusions:

• The analyzed phytococktail is a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals.
• It presents a viable, high-value nutritional supplement for populations in high-altitude, resource-limited environments.
• This phytococktail can significantly contribute to health and well-being in stressful conditions.