Phytonutrient Contents of Opuntia ficus indica L. Stem grown in Nigeria

Abstract

Opuntia ficus-indica L. stem grown in Nigeria was analyzed for some nutraceutical values. Proximate constituents were determined using standard AOAC methods, levels of mineral contents were quantified using Atomic Absorption spectrometry and fatty acid profile was determined with the aid of Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrophotometer (GC-MS). Results revealed that O. indica was rich in crude protein, ash contents and carbohydrate. The high amount of ash (25.08±0.00 mg/100g) revealed higher levels of magnesium, calcium and iron. Twenty five fatty acids were identified in the stem of O. indica, with saturated fatty acids constituting 35.69% of the total while unsaturated fatty acid were 60.66% of the total. The present study suggested that O. indica L. could serve as a good source of protein, energy as well as micronutrients and macronutrients for human health benefits.