Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the biochemical characteristics (moisture, crude protein, crude lipids, ash, pH, titrable acidity, minerals and free sugars) of four popular edible fruits (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa, Aframomum alboviolaceum, Saba comorensis and Clitandra cymulosa), but less exploited. The pulp and seeds of P. edulis f. flavicarpa and A. alboviolaceum was also investigated in order to identify the nutritional quality of seeds which are by-products in juice and nectar production. The results showed that all the fruits had a high water content, which limited their conservation. The P. edulis f. flavicarpa contains significant protein content (9.42±1.56%), and the lipid content of P. edulis f. flavicarpa (11.65%) and A. alboviolaceum (10.58%) was higher than that of the other two fruits. The pulps of Saba comorensis and Clitandra cymulosa were acidic with not negligible free sugar contents. The ashes of these four fruits contained minerals such as iron, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium, with the last two being the major elements. The comparative study of the seeds and pulps of P. edulis f. flavicarpa and A. alboviolaceum demonstrated the seeds nutritional quality. In view of these results, the four fruits as well as the P. edulis f. flavicarpa and A. alboviolaceum seeds could constitute an appreciable source of nutrient intake and also be valued in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry.

Key words: Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa, Aframomum alboviolaceum, Saba comorensis, Clitandra cymulosa, mineral elements, biochemical characteristic, Republic of Congo.