Effect of genotypes and growth locations on composition and functional properties of amadumbe flours

Amadumbe, known as taro is a traditional crop mainly grown for subsistence in Southern Africa. In this study, chemical composition and functional properties of nine amadumbe genotypes grown at two distinct locations were investigated. Carbohydrate contents (73-81%) of amadumbe genotypes were substantially high and varied with growth location. Protein contents ranged from 8-12% and fat was very low (less 1%) in all genotypes. Major minerals in flours were K, P, Mg and Ca, but these were present at varying levels depending on growth locations. Amadumbe flours showed slightly low mucilage contents (6-9%) across genotypes. However, genotypes with higher mucilage contents generally had higher water absorption capacities irrespective of growth locations. Genotype and growth location significantly affected the pasting properties of amadumbe flours. Peak viscosities varied between 83-242 RVU among genotypes. The pasting temperature of the genotypes were fairly high 87-94 °C across genotypes. This study data suggests that differences in environmental temperatures and amounts of rain falls received at growth location during the growing season could be some of the factors responsible for the variations in flour composition and consequently their functionality. Findings from this study are important for future improvement programme and for food application of amadumbe flour.