Nutritional Diversity and Bioactive Potential of Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.): A Northeast India Perspective

Abstract

Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) is an important vegetable crop characterised by considerable diversity in nutritional composition and bioactive constituents. This review examines the nutritional diversity and functional potential of pumpkin, focusing on its proximate composition, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties, with particular reference to Northeast India. Published studies report considerable variation in nutrient and phytochemical composition among species, cultivars and plant parts, influenced by geographical origin, genetic characteristics, maturity, growing conditions, post-harvest storage and processing. Differences in sample preparation, analytical methods and reporting bases make comparisons across studies challenging. Although Northeast India possesses considerable morphological and genetic diversity of Cucurbita, including locally maintained landraces, information on their nutritional and bioactive characteristics remains limited. Regional research has focused mainly on genetic diversity, morphological traits and agronomic performance, with comparatively little attention given to their nutritional composition. As a result, the nutritional value of many locally available varieties remains poorly understood. Studying their nutritional and bioactive properties is important for identifying varieties with promising nutritional qualities and encouraging their greater use in local diets and food products. This could help make better use of an underutilized crop while supporting the conservation of regional pumpkin diversity.