Biochemical changes in cottonseed during development and maturity

The changes in cottonseed constituents at different boll ages ranging from 5 to 60 days after flowering are reported. A gradual depletion of sugars coincided with gradual formation of oil has been found. Proteins are accumulated at a more or less even rate. Gossypol starts its appearance in 10 days old boll, and continuously increases. The iodine value of the oils shows gradual increase, while the acid value continuously decreases. Continuous decrease in total saturated fatty acids during development and maturity was observed while linoleic acid continuously increases. The total phospholipid content of the oil continuously decreases. The total saturated fatty acid contents of the phospholipids are generally higher than that of their corresponding oils.