The succulent part of Strychnos spinosa fruit is consumed largely by rural dwellers of Fakai people in Kebbi State of Nigeriain search of basic food nutritional supplements. The study was conducted with the aim of determining the proximate and mineral composition of S. spinosa. The determination was done using standard methods of analysis. The fruits were randomly collected from different branches of various plants from various locations in Fakai local government and were identified by a Botanist at the Biological Sciences department in Kebbi State University, Aliero. The results of the proximate analysis showed that the fruit contained 40.80% moisture, 16.50% ash, 5.70% crude protein, 19.80% crude lipid, 4.17% crude fibre and 11.80% carbohydrate. The mineral analysis shows that macro elements composition of S.spinosa are as follows; calcium has the value 3.35mg/kg, sodium 3.16mg/kg, phosphorus 3.90mg/kg, potassium 4.07mg/kg, and low amount of magnesium 2.57mg/kg. However mean micro elements composition of the same sample are as follows Mn > Zn with values 3.80mg/kg > 0.77 mg/kg. The heavy metal content of the sample(0.005 and below detection level for Cd and Pb respectively is very low and lower than the standard set by the organisms. In conclusion the results of the study indicated that S. spinosa could be nutritious for human consumption. The consumption of this fruit could increase the nutritional status of people. However, consumption of this fruit could not pose any risk to human health with regards to toxic metals concentration.
Key words: Proximate Analysis, Mineral Composition, Heavy Metals, Strychnos spinosa.
|
