Comparative Studies on the Lipid Profile of Shea (Vitellaria paradoxa C.F. Gaertn.) Fruit Kernel and Pulp

Abstract

Background and Objective: The importance of shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) has led to the continuous investigation of the shea products (kernels and butter). This study examines comparatively the levels of fatty acids, phospholipids and sterols in the samples of Vitellaria paradoxa fruit kernel and pulp. Materials and Methods: The fatty acid, phospholipid and sterol compositions were determined from the kernel and pulp samples prepared from the fresh fruits of Vitellaria paradoxa using gas chromatography method. Results: The quality parameters of fatty acids investigated in the kernel and pulp samples were: SFA (16.14 and 16.33%); MUFA (57.37 and 52.27%); PUFA (26.49 and 31.40%); MUFA/SFA (3.56 and 3.20); PUFA/SFA (1.64 and 1.92); EFA (26.43 and 31.20%); oleic/linoleic (2.27 and 1.67), respectively. The total phospholipids present in the kernel and pulp were 102.33 and 58.11 mg/100 g, respectively. Phosphatidylethanolamine content was the highest in both samples. The concentrations of phytosterols were of low values except in sitosterol (273.59 and 38.49 mg/100 g) and stigmasterol (90.26 and 12.16 mg/100 g) for the kernel and pulp samples, respectively. Conclusion: The result revealed that pulp sample was richer in EFA and PUFA/SFA ratio compared to that of kernel while the values recorded for phosphatidylserine for the two samples were too low and do not meet USFDA standards.