Nutritional Composition and Bioactive Compounds of Some Neglected and Underutilized Food Crops from Udi, Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

The effect of micronutrients in human health has been a continuous study by scientists worldwide. This work aimed at evaluating compounds in some neglected and underutilized food crops in Udi community, Udi Local Government Area, Enugu state, Nigeria. The crops are local varieties of Kidney beans, Cotton milk plant, Yellow yam, Aerial yam Oyster mushroom and blood leaf. Composite samples of each food crops randomly collected from all the villages that make up Udi town, were treated and analyzed in accordance with standard methods as described by Association of official Analytical chemist (AOAC). The mineral contents were done using Atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS); and it revealed high mineral potentials in terms of potassium, calcium, iron, copper and zinc. Phytochemical screening of their methanolic extract revealed varying concentrations of beneficial compounds such as phenols, alkaloids, tannins, saponins and flavonoids. The proximate analysis showed nutrient richness of the food crops: ash, carbohydrate crude fibre, moisture protein and fat. Vitamin contents analysis revealed presence of vitamins B1, B2, C, E, Folate and Beta carotene (provitamin A) The findings of this study show the nutritional, medicinal and functional food potentials and benefits of these indigenous food crops. Integrating them into diets could support the prevention of and management of various health conditions and illness, making them valuable for improving the overall public health and wellness, justifying the advocacy for their re-integration into local diets and food security strategies.