Department Of Chemistry, University Of Ibadan, Ibadan-Oyo State, Nigeria
Oderinde, R.A., Department Of Chemistry, University Of Ibadan, Ibadan-Oyo State, Nigeria; Ajayi, I.A., Department Of Chemistry, University Of Ibadan, Ibadan-Oyo State, Nigeria; Dewuyi, A.A., Department Of Chemistry, University Of Ibadan, Ibadan-Oyo State, Nigeria
The Kernel (KL), Aril (AL) and mixture of the Kernel and Aril (KAL, in ratio 1:1)of Blighia Unijugata Bak were analyzed for their proximate composition, physico-chemical characteristics and levels (ppm) of selected toxic trace metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, Pb, Cd and Zn) and macro nutrients (Na, K, Mg and Ca). The oil yield was 50,82% for AL, 14.15% for KL and 29.00% for KAL. The saponification and iodine value suggest their use in liquid soap, shampoo and oil based ice cream production. The crude protein was 19.90% for AL, 14.00% for KL and 16.70% for KAL. The moisture content of AL (3.30%) was the lowest compared to those of KL (6.10%) and KAL (4.70%), which indicates that the shell-life of AL is the best. Triacylglycerol was found to be the dominant lipid species in the oil with KL (90.80%) being higher than AL. Sterol was also the major component of the unsaponifiable matter. The concentrations of the macronutrients were high with K (1559 + 0.78 ppm) being the highest in KAL. The concentration of the trace metals also differs, with Zn (46.77 + 0.01 ppm) being the highest in KL. The oils extracted from them were also found to be rich in macronutrients and contain considerable amount of the trace metals in this trend. They are good source of minerals and there is the possibility of considering them as feed supplements and their oils being considered for edible purpose and industrial applications.
