The physicochemical characteristics, nutritional composition and antioxidant activities of Trichoscypha oddonii (Anacardiaceae) fruits from the forests of East Cameroon may be useful for improving human nutrition and health

Abstract

Malnutrition is a social scourge that affects the Cameroon Eastern region. In order to improve the nutritional status of these populations, it is essential to know and valorize the nutritional composition of forest foods such as fruits which are accessible and little consummed by local population. The present study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics, nutritional value and the antioxidant potential of Trichoscypha oddonii fruit pulps. To achieve this work, we determined mainly the macronutrient and micronutrient content. After that, we evaluated the total phenol and flavonoides content. Finaly the antioxidant activities of Trichoscypha oddonii pulps have been studied. The results of this work showed that the pulp of these fruits contains carbohydrates (55.83%), proteins (2.88%), lipids (12.98%) and fibers (10.63%). The analysis of the mineral content revealed the presence of Zinc (0.79%), Iron (10.29%), Magnesium (35.06%), Potassium (446.65%) and especially Calcium (1386 .33%). Bioactive compound were also identified as polyphenols (413.79 µg ECa/g DM), flavonoids (50.48 µg EQ/g DM) giving to this fruit antioxidant activities. The consumption of Trichoscypha oddonii pulps could contribute to improving the nutritional status of populations in the Eastern Cameroon region.