Nutrient Composition Studies of the Mesocarp and Seed of Almond Plant

Abstract

The study investigated the proximate, mineral and amino acid compositions of the kernel and mesocarp of almond fruit (Prunusdulcis) obtained from Niger State, Nigeria, using standard procedures. Results from proximate analysis show that the crude protein content of the kernel (2.83±0.02%) was more than that of the mesocarp (0.77±0.12%). The carbohydrate content of the mesocarp (77.20±0.27) was higher than the kernel (28.34±0.10). The result for mineral analysis reveals that the kernel has higher potassium content (2630.70±10.0mg/100g) than the mesocarp (1824±21.63mg/100g). The mesocarp however is richer in iron (76.33±1.52mg/100g) compared to the kernel (18.65±0.53g/100g). Zinc, magnesium and calcium were presentinsignificant amount. Amino acid analysis shows that leucine has the highest concentration (6.92g/100g) while tryptophan has least (1.42g/100g). Norleucine was below detection limit. The findings from the mineral and proximate compositions were generally within appreciable range for human diet thus suggesting that the kernel and mesocarp of almond could be recommended as a rich food supplements for human and livestock.