Evalution of Biochemical, Nutritional and Microbiological Parameters of Dried néré (Parkia biglobosa) Pulp Sold in the Markets of Daloa, Central-West, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Background: Nutritional deficiencies affecting populations and the lack of hygienic quality of food constitute major public health issues that developing countries like Ivory Coast are facing, and against which we must necessarily fight. Aim: The aim of this work was to determine the values of various biochemical and nutritional components of the powder made from the dried pulp sold in the markets of Daloa and, above all, to verify their safety. Methodology: To obtain the values of these components, several methods were used. Total polyphenols were determined by spectrophotometry using the colorimetric method with the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. The determination of condensed tannins was done using the vanillin method with hydrochloric acid. Dry matter, ash, proteins, lipids and all other nutrients were determined according to standard methods (AOAC). Results: The results showed the presence of phenolic compounds in the powders and especially high levels of macronutrients and micronutrients. The microbiological analysis was conducted on potentially pathogenic germs found in the dried pulp of Parkia biglobosa. The samples notably contain enterobacteria as well as yeasts and molds. The loads obtained for the different germs are below the microbiological criteria. The loads are 33 CFU/g for enterobacteria, 920 CFU/g for yeasts and molds, 280 CFU/g for Bacillus cereus, 00 CFU/g for Staphylococcus aureus, and 00 CFU/g for E. coli. Thus, the analyzed samples demonstrate satisfactory nutritional and microbiological quality. Conclusion: the use of dried pulp powder may be recommended for the diets of the most vulnerable populations such as infants and the elderly. Thus, the daily consumption of this powder could help combat diseases caused by nutritional deficiencies observed in children.