Proximate, Essential Minerals Compositions and Physicochemical Characteristics of the Lipids of <em>Citrullus Vulgaris</em> Seeds

Abstract

Citrullus vulgaris seeds were analyzed for proximate composition, nutritionally valuable minerals and its lipids subjected to physicochemical analysis using standard methods of food analysis. The results showed that the plant seeds contain 5.10±0.40% moisture, 4.17±0.10% ash, 41.20±0.50% crude lipid, 23.90±0.17% crude protein, 13.70±0.10% crude fiber and 10.66±0.02% carbohydrate. Potassium is the predominant mineral (497±2.14 mg/Kg), with Ca (147.10±1.90 mg/kg), P (104.20±1.15 mg/kg), Fe (95.70±0.80 mg/kg), Mg (52.20±1.70 mg/kg), Na (30±1.50 mg/kg) and Zn (6.90± 0.90 mg/kg) found in moderate concentrations. Cr was least in concentration (0.01±0.00 mg/kg). The physicochemical properties of the lipid investigated revealed an acid value (2.97±0.50 mgKOH/g), iodine value (95.25±0.30 gI₂/100g), peroxide value (5.50±0.20%), saponification value (197.25±0.60 mgKOH/g) and unsaponifiable matter (0.47±0.70%). From the analysis, it was concluded that the seeds of Citrillus vulgaris has nutritional potential and could serve as a source of raw materials in domestic and industrial processes.

Keywords: Citrullus vulgaris, seeds, nutrients, minerals, lipids