Evaluation of the Biochemical and Nutritional Parameters of the Seeds of the Eggplant “Gnangnan’’ (Solanum anguivi) Consumed in Daloa (Haut-Sassandra, Côte d’Ivoire)

Abstract

Background: 'Gnangnan' (Solanum anguivi) is widely consumed in Côte d'Ivoire. Numerous studies have provided data on the biochemical and nutritional compositions of the fruits of this eggplant. However, data on the seeds of this plant remain almost nonexistent. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the biochemical and nutritional characteristics of Gnangnan seeds consumed in Daloa (Central-West, Côte d'Ivoire) in order to assess their actual potential. Methodology: Thus, fresh fruits (1 kg) of Gnangnan were crushed in a porcelain mortar and the pulp was separated from the seeds by sieving. The obtained seeds first underwent solar drying for a week with an average temperature of 29.75°C and relative humidity of 52.26%. They were then dried in an oven at 105°C for 24 hours. Finally, the dried seeds were ground with a blender and then sieved. The different analyses were carried out according to the methods indicated for each parameter. Results: The results revealed the presence of total sugars (22.81 ± 10-1 %), total carbohydrates (59.28 ± 10-1 %), total polyphenols (11.11 ± 4.1.10-2 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids (4.74 ± 8.10-1 mg QE/g), vitamin C (7.5 ± 1.10-2 mg/100g) and antioxidant activities (292.74 ± 1.10-3 µg/ml). The results also showed that these seeds are rich in iron (94.973 ± 1.10-3 mg/kg), zinc (402.807 ± 2.10-1 mg/kg), and macrominerals such as calcium (241.994 ± 1.10-3 mg/kg), sodium (30.812 ± 1.10-3 mg/kg), potassium (279.829 ± 2.10-3 mg/kg), and magnesium (629.162 ± 1.10-3 mg/kg). Conclusion: Given the numerous benefits associated with the presence of antioxidant activities and compounds such as polyphenols and vitamin C, these data could support the use of these seeds in the treatment of cellular oxidative stress as a nutraceutical and pharmaceutical product.