Structural (gross and micro), physical and nutritional properties of Trichilia emetica and Trichilia dregeana seeds

Gugu Felicity Tsomele, Eudri Venter, Obiro Cuthbert Wokadala, Elize Jooste, Bhekisisa Chushuta Dlamini, Nomali Ziphorah Ngobese, Muthulisi Siwela

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This study assessed the gross-structure, micro-structure, physical characteristics and nutritional composition of Trichilia emetica and Trichilia dregeana seeds. T. emetica and T. dregeana seeds have potential for commercialization and improved food security, yet they are under-utilized and under-researched. The gross- and micro-structure of the seeds was assessed using stereo microscopy, light microscopy (LM), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Protein, fat, ash, and mineral content of the seeds were also assessed. T. emetica and T. dregeana seeds had lower bulk density (393.5 kgm−3 & 433.6 kgm−3 respectively) and lower porosity (55.07% & 54.38% respectively) than soybean. Geometric mean diameter (29.7 mm & 16.9 mm) and aspect ratio (1.72 and 1.85) of T. emetica and T. dregeana seeds respectively, were higher than soybean, while they had lower sphericity (0.66 and 0.66 respectively) than soybean (0.99). Microscopy analysis showed that Trichilia species had larger-sized and more round-shaped protein bodies than soybean seeds. T. emetica and T. dregeana protein contents (25.6% and 17.3% w/w, respectively) were lower than soybean (45.4%) while fat contents (49% and 51.5% w/w, respectively) were higher than soybean (20.2% w/w). Potassium (1075–1350 mg100g−1) and calcium (285–300 mg100g−1) where the main macro-minerals while iron (6.33–6.83 mg100g−1) and zinc (2.30–2.90 mg100g−1) were the main micro-minerals. The research demonstrated that the structural and nutritional characteristics of T. dregeana and T. emetica seeds could facilitate their commercial utilization and application for food security alleviation.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)483-492
Number of pages10
JournalCYTA - Journal of Food
Volume19
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Keywords

  • indigenous seeds
  • macro-minerals
  • micro-minerals
  • Oilseeds
  • proximate composition
  • seed microstructure
  • seed physical properties
  • Trichilia species

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemistry
  • General Chemical Engineering
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

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