Nutritional evaluation of some Kenyan pumpkins (cucurbita spp.)
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Date
2014
Authors
Karanja, James K.
Mugendi, Jane Beatrice
Khamis, Fathiya M.
Muchugi, Alice N.
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Abstract
The nutritional potential of thirteen varieties of Cucurbita fruits collected from selected regions of Kenya were
evaluated for their proximate values, mineral and β-carotene content. The results indicated that the moisture content was high
and it varied significantly (p<0.05) among the groups. Ash values were significantly different at (p<0.05) and ranged from
0.63 to 1.67%, crude protein was low in all the pumpkin groups and varied from 0.93 to 2.09%. The pumpkins also varied
significantly (p<0.05) in crude fibre content (0.47- 1.95) among the groups. Potassium and sodium were the most prevalent
minerals potentially useful amounts of potassium (199-172.3 mg/100g), sodium (56.39-118.28 mg/100g) and other essential
minerals. The lowest micro-elements were copper and zinc. The results indicated that there were no significant differences
among the groups in the β-carotene content (p<0.05). The nutrient information presented in this report should stimulate the
nutritionists and agricultural officers in Kenya to consider the question of recommending the pumpkin to be consumed by
adults and children alike in Kenya, including pregnant women and others with higher than normal nutritional requirements
Description
Research paper
Keywords
Nutritional, Cucurbita, Proximate, Mineral composition
Citation
International Journal of Agriculture and Forestry 2014, 4(3): 195-200 DOI: 10.5923/j.ijaf.20140403.08