Search

Citrus australasica, also named finger lime, has been drawing lots of attention recently due to its potent antioxidant capacity and health-promoting benefits. They have been applied to the food industry as fruit or processed into soda, flavor liquor, jam, and dried powder. Especially, phenolic compounds are of prime interest as a large group of bioactive components in finger lime, including phenolic acids, flavan-3-ols, flavanones, anthocyanins, flavones, flavonols, and iso-flavonoids. Besides, other bioactive phytochemicals have also shown their roles, such as organic acids, minerals, carotenoids, vitamins, and chlorophylls. They synergically trigger finger lime to be a beneficial source, which can prevent people from chronic diseases, including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, by avoiding excessive intake of nutrients (anti-nutritional activity) and releasing oxidation pressure (antioxidant capacity). Therefore, the extracts of finger lime can be used as a functional ingredient in alimentology or pharmacology areas to lower the risk. Our review aimed to summarize the specific bioactive compounds and their corresponding bioactivities in finger lime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenolics, like tannins, are plant‐specialized metabolites that play a protective role against herbivory. Tannins can reduce palatability and bind with proteins to reduce digestibility, acting as deterrents to feeding and impacting nutrient extraction by herbivores. Some assays measure tannin and total phenolics content in plants but lack determination of their biological effects, hindering the interpretation of tannin function in herbivory and its impacts on animal behavior and ecology. In this study, we successfully applied the radial diffusion assay to assess tannin protein precipitation (PP) capacity and evaluate the anti‐nutritional effects of tannins in food plants (n = 24) consumed by free‐ranging black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra) in Tabasco, Mexico. We found PP rings in five plant species consumed by the monkeys. The mature fruit of Inga edulis was the most consumed food plant, despite having a high tannin PP capacity (56.66 mg tannic acid equivalent/g dry matter). These findings highlight the presence of tannins in the black howler diet and provide insight into the primates' resilience and potential strategies for coping with anti‐nutritional aspects of the diet. Highlights: This study highlights the complex dynamics of tannins in the diet of black howlers, revealing a nuanced relationship between tannins, feeding patterns, and potential physiological benefits. The research employs a multifaceted approach, including tannin precipitation assays, to unravel the intricate interplay of these compounds in primate ecology and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tacca tubers (Tacca leontopetaloides) are a tuber plant variety that is neglected and underutilized. Understanding tacca tubers' nutritional and anti-nutritional composition is necessary as a scientific basis for their development in the food industry. This study aims to evaluate the proximate composition, nutritional, and anti-nutritional compounds of tacca tubers grown in various regions in Indonesia, in particular Garut, Bangkalan, and Sumenep. As a result, the growing location did not affect the proximate composition (crude protein, ash, crude fiber, and fat) of tacca tubers except for water content. Significant differences were observed in starch content (25.77-32.43 %), vitamin C (11.85-14.32 mg/100 g), and vitamin E (0.25-0.42 mg/100 g). The growing location also significantly influences tacca tubers' mineral components (phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron, copper, zinc, sodium, and potassium). In addition, anti-nutritional compounds such as phytic acid (633.25-538.80 mg/100 g), tannin (45.43-64.03 mg/100 g), oxalate (201.14-338.01 mg/100 g), cyanide (2.17-3.05 mg/100 g), alkaloids (253.68-487.91 mg/100 g) and saponins (97.54-105.24 mg/100 g) in tacca tubers identified in different amounts at each growing location. In conclusion, tacca tubers Indonesia from Garut contain a high starch component. This potential can be an energy source, especially for coastal communities. Thus, tacca tubers can support creating a sustainable food system in Indonesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proximate composition and phytochemical content of solvent extracted roasted castor seed meal from Oriire Local Government area of Oyo State, Nigeria was determined using appropriate standard methods. The meal were found to contain 14.28% moisture, 24.48% crude protein, 3.46% crude fibre, 23.29% ether extract,5.71% ash,85.72% dry matter, nitrogen free extract and gross energy values were 56.91% and 5724kcal/kg respectively. The results of anti-nutritional factor present in the roasted solvent extracted castor seed meal revealed that it contained 0.13% ricin, 0.83% phytate and 0.38% oxalate. Based on the results of this study, roasted solvent extracted castor seed meal can be potential source of protein in the diet of monogastric animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the primary grain legume cultivated worldwide for direct human consumption due to the high nutritional value of its seeds and pods. The high protein content of common beans highlights it as the most promising source of plant-based protein for the food industry. Additionally, landraces of common bean have great variability in nutritional traits, which is necessary to increase the nutritional quality of elite varieties. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to nutritionally characterize 23 Chilean landraces and 5 commercial varieties of common bean to identify genotypes with high nutritional value that are promising for the food industry and for genetic improvement programs. The landrace Phv23 ('Palo') was the most outstanding with high concentrations of minerals such as P (7.53 g/kg), K (19.8 g/kg), Mg (2.43 g/kg), Zn (52.67 mg/kg), and Cu (13.67 mg/kg); essential amino acids (364.8 mg/g protein); and total proteins (30.35 g/100 g seed). Additionally, the landraces Phv9 ('Cimarrón'), Phv17 ('Juanita'), Phv3 ('Araucano'), Phv8 ('Cabrita/Señorita'), and Phv4 ('Arroz') had a high protein content. The landrace Phv24 ('Peumo') stood out for its phenolic compounds (TPC = 218.1 mg GA/100 g seed) and antioxidant activity (ORAC = 22,167.9 μmol eq trolox/100 g extract), but it has moderate to low mineral and protein concentrations. In general, the concentration of nutritional compounds in some Chilean landraces was significantly different from the commercial varieties, highlighting their high nutritional value and their potential use for the food industry and for genetic improvement purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the nutritional and phytochemical properties of freshly harvested grains of Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays using standard biochemical procedures. Nutritional properties analyzed included proximate composition analyzed using Soxhlet extraction, AOAC Kjeldal methods. Mineral contents were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry [AAS] while the phytochemicals were determined using standard procedures. All analyses were replicated three times. From the results, crude protein content was low, with values, 7.81% and 6.66% for Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays respectively. Lipid analysis showed that Sorghum bicolor had a higher lipid content of 16.57%. Crude carbohydrate content was higher in both seeds. Percentage of crude fiber was 11.20% and 8.11% for Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays respectively. Vitamin C analysis showed that Zea mays had a higher content of 122.14 mg/100 g. Available energy kj/100 g was also analyzed for Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays respectively. Significant differences (P=0.05) was observed in crude lipid, crude fiber, vitamin C, and available energy between the two seeds. Mineral analysis revealed appreciable contents of minerals necessary for healthy growth and development. Calcium content was highest in Sorghum bicolor. Significant differences (P=0.05) was observed in phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and iron between the two seed types. Phytochemical contents of the seeds showed significant differences (P=0.05) in tannins, nitrates and saponin with 12.57 mg/100 g, 18.18 mg/100 g and respectively in Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays. Nitrate and saponin content was higher in Zea mays. Alkaloid, flavonoids and phytate contents was detected in both seeds. Minute amounts of oxalate and cyanide were detected in both seed types. It is important to note that Zea mays is under pressure as one of formidable food source due to the increasing demand, and thus, increasing the cultivation of Sorghum bicolor could alleviate the over dependence on maize as the primary source of nutrition for humans and animal feed formulation.

Anchote is an indigenous tuber crop with a good source of protein and calcium. Despite the presence of different accessions of the crop, little is known about the nutritional and anti-nutritional content. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nutritional and anti-nutritional content of anchote accessions grown in the East Arsi Zone of Ethiopia. Tubers from 20 accessions of anchote were collected from the research farm of Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center in Ethiopia. The dried tubers of each accession were grounded separately into fine powder following standard procedure and used for nutritional and anti-nutritional content determination. Result showed that, the nutritional compositions varied from: water (65.38%–77.13 %), ash (1.82%–2.85 %), crude fat (0.55%–1.45 %), crude fiber (2.22%–4.02 %), crude protein (6.29%–13.00 %), carbohydrate (6.78%–19.68 %), total starch (39.22%–72.74 %), and energy (74.73%–123.66 %). Phytate concentration ranged from 208.06 mg/100 g to 273.87 mg/100 g, while tannin content was recorded at the lowest (1.19 mg/100g) and highest (44.4 mg/100g). Mineral contents were in a range from calcium (66.81–177.13 mg/100g), magnesium (19.64–35.82 mg/100g), potassium (250.47–523.72 mg/100g), sodium (0.51–4.19 mg/100g), phosphorus (38.91–93.45 mg/100g), iron (0.16–0.65 mg/100g), manganese (0.08–0.27 mg/100g), copper (0.17–0.29 mg/100g), and zinc (0.23–0.46 mg/100g). This study showed that anchote tubers contain a significant amount of essential nutrients. Accessions greatly vary in their nutritional and anti-nutrition compositions. Therefore, anchote accessions with higher nutritional values could be used in breeding and food product development targeting nutritional enhancement.

Edible crops are composed of macronutrients, micronutrients, and anti-nutritional factors. Anti-nutritional factors can interact with nutrients, resulting in a reduction in the bioavailability of these nutrients. Several methods can be employed to decrease the presence of antinutrient elements, including processing processes like autoclaving, debranding, fermentation, soaking, and germination. The integration of various methodologies has the potential to reduce the presence of antinutrients in food items. Numerous botanical species possess bioactive chemicals that have medicinal properties and serve various additional purposes. Tannins are a class of anti-nutritional compounds that are present in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and tea. The substance possesses a distinctly acrid flavor and can be employed for food preservation, leather production, and as a natural coloring agent. Phytic acid possesses various applications within the realm of the food sector. Further investigation is required to comprehensively comprehend the intricate health implications of ANFs, as well as to devise innovative strategies for mitigating their adverse consequences while preserving their advantageous attributes. The research conducted by ANF exhibits considerable promise and is seeing notable growth, thereby aiding scientists in improving the nutritional value of food and discovering innovative therapeutic solutions.

Amaranth (Amaranthus sp.) is an underutilized pseudo-cereal with excellent nutritional and functional properties. The nutritional compositions, anti-nutritional and mineral content of two Amaranth species were evaluated by using standard procedures. Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used for nutritional, anti-nutritional and mineral content with two treatments and five replications. The nutritional compositions of Amaranthus cruentus and Amaranthus hypochondriacus were shown a significant difference (p

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is the primary grain legume cultivated worldwide for direct human consumption due to the high nutritional value of its seeds and pods. The high protein content of common beans highlights it as the most promising source of plant-based protein for the food industry. Additionally, landraces of common bean have great variability in nutritional traits, which is necessary to increase the nutritional quality of elite varieties. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to nutritionally characterize 23 Chilean landraces and 5 commercial varieties of common bean to identify genotypes with high nutritional value that are promising for the food industry and for genetic improvement programs. The landrace Phv23 (‘Palo’) was the most outstanding with high concentrations of minerals such as P (7.53 g/kg), K (19.8 g/kg), Mg (2.43 g/kg), Zn (52.67 mg/kg), and Cu (13.67 mg/kg); essential amino acids (364.8 mg/g protein); and total proteins (30.35 g/100 g seed). Additionally, the landraces Phv9 (‘Cimarrón’), Phv17 (‘Juanita’), Phv3 (‘Araucano’), Phv8 (‘Cabrita/Señorita’), and Phv4 (‘Arroz’) had a high protein content. The landrace Phv24 (‘Peumo’) stood out for its phenolic compounds (TPC = 218.1 mg GA/100 g seed) and antioxidant activity (ORAC = 22,167.9 μmol eq trolox/100 g extract), but it has moderate to low mineral and protein concentrations. In general, the concentration of nutritional compounds in some Chilean landraces was significantly different from the commercial varieties, highlighting their high nutritional value and their potential use for the food industry and for genetic improvement purposes.

Samples of Dioscorea dumenturom, Dioscorea rotundata and Dioscorea cayenensis were investigated for their proximate composition, anti-nutritional and mineral contents using standard analytical methods. These varieties of Dioscorea analysed showed a significant difference (P≤0.05) amongst them. However, from the results, it was observed that Dioscorea rotundata had the highest ash (8.05±0.05 %) and crude fibre content (13.11±0.10 %) which indicates that it contains more mineral stuffing and is best for softening of stool. Dioscorea cayenensis had the highest fat content (16.31±0.30 %), indicating that it is a better source of calories than other yam species analysed. Dioscorea dumenturom had the lowest moisture content (3.51±0.01 %) as well as the highest crude protein (12.29±0.01 %) and carbohydrates (69.04±0.10 %) than other yam species analysed, indicating its longer shelf-life, high bodybuilding capacity and better source of energy than other yam species analysed. The anti-nutritional constituent of alkaloid and tannin were lowest in Dioscorea cayenensis while Dioscorea rotundata had the least cyanide, phytate and oxalate content. This implies that these particular yams are safer for consumption. The elemental analysis in mg/100g indicated that the yam species contained appreciable levels of essential minerals, with Dioscorea dumenturom having the highest sodium, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorous and magnesium concentration of 32.05±0.07 mg/100g,190.57±0.01mg/100g, 5.98±0.03 mg/100g, 80.12±0.17 mg/100g, 237.10±0.48 mg/100g and 100.22±0.03 mg/100g respectively. All these mineral concentrations exist within the permissible limit of WHO and hence indicate that the yam species can serve as a good source of minerals.

Common reed (Phragmites australis) is growing naturally in wetlands and is not adequately evaluated. The aim of the study was to determine the fermentative, nutritive, and anti-nutritive composition of the common reed and silage. The plant was cut from the reed area is ensiled in 1.5 L anaerobic jars with 10 replicates. The crude protein content of the plant was 14.44%, and 14.47% respectively in raw and silage. The crude ash was 9.46% in raw, 9.12% in its silage. The neutral and acid detergent fibers were 66.91% and 42.93% in raw, 65.45%, and 43.20% in the silage respectively. The pH value was 7.37 in raw and 4.32 in its silage. The organic matter digestibility was 61.99% in raw and 62.10% of its silage. The metabolic energy and net energy lactation values were 8.32 and 4.48 MJ/kg DM in raw, 8.25 and 4.35 MJ/kg DM in silage. The digestible dry matter, dry matter intake, and relative feed value contents were 55.44%, 1.82%, and 78.20 in raw; 51.32%, 1.83%, and 72.81 in the silage respectively. The in vitro methane production was decreased in silage compared the raw material. The silage Fleig point was in "very good" class. The lactic, acetic propionic and butyric acids in silage were 76.49, 21.91, 11.00, and 3.99 g/kg DM, respectively. The calcium and phosphorus contents were 9.22–9.13 g/kg, and 3.36–3.40 g/kg, in raw and silage respectively. The plant fatty acid composition has more than 50% unsaturated fatty acids. The lysine and methionine concentrations were determined as 5.01–5.09 and 0.40–0.42 g/kg DM, respectively. As a result, it has been determined that Phragmites australis can be used as roughage feed for animals and can be ensiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the nutritional and phytochemical properties of freshly harvested grains of Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays using standard biochemical procedures. Nutritional properties analyzed included proximate composition analyzed using Soxhlet extraction, AOAC Kjeldal methods. Mineral contents were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry [AAS] while the phytochemicals were determined using standard procedures. All analyses were replicated three times. From the results, crude protein content was low, with values, 7.81% and 6.66% for Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays respectively. Lipid analysis showed that Sorghum bicolor had a higher lipid content of 16.57%. Crude carbohydrate content was higher in both seeds. Percentage of crude fiber was 11.20% and 8.11% for Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays respectively. Vitamin C analysis showed that Zea mays had a higher content of 122.14 mg/100 g. Available energy kj/100 g was also analyzed for Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays respectively. Significant differences (P=0.05) was observed in crude lipid, crude fiber, vitamin C, and available energy between the two seeds. Mineral analysis revealed appreciable contents of minerals necessary for healthy growth and development. Calcium content was highest in Sorghum bicolor. Significant differences (P=0.05) was observed in phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and iron between the two seed types. Phytochemical contents of the seeds showed significant differences (P=0.05) in tannins, nitrates and saponin with 12.57 mg/100 g, 18.18 mg/100 g and respectively in Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays. Nitrate and saponin content was higher in Zea mays. Alkaloid, flavonoids and phytate contents was detected in both seeds. Minute amounts of oxalate and cyanide were detected in both seed types. It is important to note that Zea mays is under pressure as one of formidable food source due to the increasing demand, and thus, increasing the cultivation of Sorghum bicolor could alleviate the over dependence on maize as the primary source of nutrition for humans and animal feed formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytases are the largest group of feed enzymes increasing the accessibility of organic phosphorus for the animals. Feed phytases are usually sold as dried powder of secreting producers, mainly micellar fungi. We proposed a new technology for producing phytase from Obesumbacterium proteus (OPP) in yeast Yarrowia lipolytica as cytosolic protein (encapsulated OPP), where the capsule (yeast cell) protects the enzyme from unfavourable factors (acid medium and active proteolysis in stomachs) and releases it along with the substrate in the duodenum only. Here we report results of testing the encapsulated OPP on the model of a broiler chicken in comparison to a conventional phytase from Aspergillus ficuum. The encapsulated OPP at a dosage of 30 FYT/kg provided the maximum body weight of the chicken in the end of experiment equal or somewhat higher than in the control group, where the available phosphorus deficit was complemented with a mineral phosphorus supply. In contrast, the conventional soluble phytase at a dosage of 100 or 1000 FYT/kg was not able to compensate for the phosphorus deficit in the diet, although chemical analysis demonstrated much phosphorus in the diet in a non-accessible form. The encapsulated OPP decreased the residual Pi in the chicken faeces by 2.1 times in comparison to the control when added to the diet, whereas the conventional phytases negligibly affected this parameter regardless of the dosage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The faba bean is one of the earliest domesticated crops, with both economic and environmental benefits. Like most legumes, faba beans are high in protein, and can be used to contribute to a balanced diet, or as a meat substitute. However, they also produce the anti-nutritional compounds, vicine and convicine (v-c), that when enzymatically degraded into reactive aglycones can potentially lead to hemolytic anemia or favism. Current methods of analysis use LC-UV, but are only suitable at high concentrations, and thus lack the selectivity and sensitivity to accurately quantitate the low-v-c genotypes currently being developed. We have developed and fully validated a rapid high-throughput LC-MS method for the analysis of v-c in faba beans by optimizing the extraction protocol and assessing the method of linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, accuracy, precision and matrix effects. This method uses 10-times less starting material; removes the use of buffers, acids and organic chemicals; and improves precision and accuracy when compared to current methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea is an important beverage consumed worldwide. Of the different types of tea available, herbal tea is an important beverage consumed owing to its popularity as a drink and stress relieving factors, several different herbal concoctions made from seeds, leaves, or roots are currently consumed and sold as herbal teas. The herbal teas are not the usual tea but “tisanes.” They are caffeine free and popular for their medicinal property or immune boosters. Herbal tea formulations are popularly sold and consumed by millions owing to their health benefits as they are rich in antioxidants and minerals. However, plants are also known to contain toxic and anti-nutritional factors. Anti-nutritional factors are known to interfere with the metabolic process and hamper the absorption of important nutrients in the body. These anti-nutritional factors include saponins, tannins, alkaloids, oxalates, lectins, goitrogens, cyanogens, and lethogens. These chemicals are known to have deleterious effects on human health. Therefore, it is important to understand and assess the merits and demerits before consumption. Also, several techniques are currently used to process and reduce the anti-nutrients in foods. This review is focused on comparing the contents of various anti-nutritional factors in some underutilized plants of North-East India used as herbal tea along with processing methods that can be used to reduce the level of these anti-nutrients.

Amaranth seeds, although a valuable food in Mexico, contain anti-nutritional compounds that can affect food quality. As a part of this work, the proximate composition, fatty acid profile, protein digestibility, and the effect of germination and popping of Amaranthus hypochondriacus seeds was analyzed with the aim of eliminating anti-nutritional compounds. Untreated seeds comprised of 11.35–18.8% protein and 0.27–13.39% lipids, including omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids such as oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and arachidonic acid. The main minerals detected were Ca+2, K+1, and Mg+2. Nevertheless in vitro studies indicate that germination significantly improved digestibility, whereby treatments aimed at reducing anti-nutritional compounds decreased lectin concentration, while significantly increasing tannins and completely eliminating trypsins and saponins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytases are the largest group of feed enzymes increasing the accessibility of organic phosphorus for the animals. Feed phytases are usually sold as dried powder of secreting producers, mainly micellar fungi. We proposed a new technology for producing phytase from Obesumbacterium proteus (OPP) in yeast Yarrowia lipolytica as cytosolic protein (encapsulated OPP), where the capsule (yeast cell) protects the enzyme from unfavourable factors (acid medium and active proteolysis in stomachs) and releases it along with the substrate in the duodenum only. Here we report results of testing the encapsulated OPP on the model of a broiler chicken in comparison to a conventional phytase from Aspergillus ficuum. The encapsulated OPP at a dosage of 30 FYT/kg provided the maximum body weight of the chicken in the end of experiment equal or somewhat higher than in the control group, where the available phosphorus deficit was complemented with a mineral phosphorus supply. In contrast, the conventional soluble phytase at a dosage of 100 or 1000 FYT/kg was not able to compensate for the phosphorus deficit in the diet, although chemical analysis demonstrated much phosphorus in the diet in a non-accessible form. The encapsulated OPP decreased the residual Pi in the chicken faeces by 2.1 times in comparison to the control when added to the diet, whereas the conventional phytases negligibly affected this parameter regardless of the dosage.

Amaranth seeds, although a valuable food in Mexico, contain anti-nutritional compounds that can affect food quality. As a part of this work, the proximate composition, fatty acid profile, protein digestibility, and the effect of germination and popping of Amaranthus hypochondriacus seeds was analyzed with the aim of eliminating anti-nutritional compounds. Untreated seeds comprised of 11.35–18.8% protein and 0.27–13.39% lipids, including omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids such as oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and arachidonic acid. The main minerals detected were Ca+2, K+1, and Mg+2. Nevertheless in vitro studies indicate that germination significantly improved digestibility, whereby treatments aimed at reducing anti-nutritional compounds decreased lectin concentration, while significantly increasing tannins and completely eliminating trypsins and saponins.

Soybean hull as a rich and inexpensive source of dietary fiber and because of its health properties, is a good option for supplying dietary fiber to various food industries. Optimization of the extrusion process and the effects of its variables [Feed moisture (35–45%), screw speed (160–200 rpm), and temperature (75–95 °C)] were investigated on the structural, nutritional, and functional properties of soybean hull by response surface methodology. Based on response surface analysis, the maximum soluble dietary fiber content and water absorption index in addition to the minimum specific mechanical energy and anti-nutritional composition of tannin were obtained at a feed moisture content of 42.58%, screw speed of 182.46 rpm, and temperature of 87.43 °C. The extrusion process also increased the rate of swelling capacity, solubility index, yellowness, and redness of the samples. It also reduced the oil absorption index and lightness in comparison with the control. The FTIR spectroscopy did not show a new functional group and the urease test (trypsin inhibitor activity) was negative in the extruded samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of sprouting on proximate and anti-nutritional factors of Jackbean flour was investigated. Jackbean was procured from the Genetic Resources Unit of International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria. The seeds were carefully sorted and sprouted for 10 days. The sprouted and unprocessed (control) bean were then milled into flour and thereafter assessed for proximate and antinutritional factors. The data generated were subjected to statistical analyses using SAS 2.0 and SPSS 20.0 packages. The results of influence of sprouting on proximate constituents and anti-nutritional factors revealed that sprouting for nine days (S5) resulted in flour sample with highest protein content and significant reduction in anti-nutritional factors most especially trypsin inhibitor from 32.08 + 0.13; 29.18 + 0.46 in control to 39.50 + 0.06; 18.33 + 0.03 in the sprouted samples respectively. Sprouting thus had positive effect on proximate and anti-nutritional factors of Jackbean flour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sesame is one of the most consumed oilseeds that despite being rich in mineral salts, contains some antinutritional compounds that are limiting nutrients to the body. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate some of the antinutritional compounds (oxalate and phytate) and heavy metals (lead and cadmium) in sesame oil, raw and peeled sesame seed (Sesamum indicum L.) of two varieties; Dashtestan 2 and Darab 14; Cultivated in Iran. Sesame seed samples were collected from Seed and Plant Certification and Registration Institute in Karaj, iran. Oxalate and phytate were determined using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) methods and Pb, Cd, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn and Mn were determined using atomic absorption pectrophotometry (AAS). The lead content of all samples is higher than the maximum permissible level and their cadmium content is below the maximum permissible standard in Iran. The Darab variety contains more phytic acid and the Dashtestan variety has higher oxalic acid content. Most of the minerals in the samples are calcium. The oil extracted from the raw sesame seeds lacks phytic acid and contains about 2.5 mg/Kg oxalic acid. The raw sesame seeds have some anti-nutritional compounds that significantly reduces by peeling, while the amount of these compounds in sesame oil is much lower than the standard Iranian and Codex. Therefore, it is better to evaluate its quality before using raw sesame seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections impact small ruminant health, welfare, and production across farming systems. Rising anthelmintic resistance and regulation of synthetic drug use in organic farming is driving research and development of sustainable alternatives for GIN control. One alternative is the feeding of plants that contain secondary metabolites (PSMs) e.g., proanthocyanidins (PA, syn. condensed tannins) that have shown anthelmintic potential. However, PSMs can potentially impair performance, arising from reduced palatability and thus intake, digestibility or even toxicity effects. In this study, we tested the trade-off between the antiparasitic and anti-nutritional effects of heather consumption by lambs. The impact of additional feeding of a nematophagous fungus (Duddingtonia flagrans) on larval development was also explored. Lambs infected with Teladorsagia circumcincta or uninfected controls, were offered ad libitum heather, or a control chopped hay for 22 days during the infection patent period. Eight days into the patent period, parasitised lambs were supplemented (or remained unsupplemented) with D. flagrans for a 5-day period. Performance and infection metrics were recorded, and polyphenol levels in the heather and control hay were measured to investigate their association with activity. The lambs consumed heather at approximately 20% of their dry matter intake, which was sufficient to exhibit significant anthelmintic effects via a reduction in total egg output (P = 0.007), compared to hay-fed lambs; the magnitude of the reduction over time in heather fed lambs was almost 10-fold compared to control lambs. Negative effects on production were shown, as heather-fed lambs weighed 6% less than hay-fed lambs (P < 0.001), even though dry matter intake (DMI) of heather increased over time. D. flagrans supplementation lowered larval recovery in the faeces of infected lambs by 31.8% (P = 0.003), although no interactions between feeding heather and D. flagrans were observed (P = 0.337). There was no significant correlation between PA, or other polyphenol subgroups in the diet and egg output, which suggests that any association between heather feeding and anthelmintic effect is not simply and directly attributable to the measured polyphenols. The level of heather intake in this study showed no antagonistic effects on D. flagrans , demonstrating the methods can be used in combination, but provide no additive effect on overall anthelmintic efficacies. In conclusion, heather feeding can assist to reduce egg outputs in infected sheep, but at 20% of DMI negative effects on lamb performance can be expected which may outweigh any antiparasitic benefits. • Heather intake at 20% of DMI reduced gastrointestinal nematode daily egg output. • Adult worm counts were not affected by heather consumption in infected lambs. • Lambs on the heather diet suffered performance costs shown by lower bodyweight. • Supplementation with Duddingtonia flagrans reduced larval recovery in faeces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high nutritious value which they contribute to the originating products nonconventional of legumes in the nutrition animal cannot be used in their totality due to the compound presence secondary also denominated antinutricionales factors, such that structurally contain a great variety of biologically active substances that according to its nature and concentration is those that limits their use due to the injurious effects that produce in the monogastric animals since they do not count on the protection that offers the ruminal bacterial flora as in the case of the ruminants. With this investigation one looks for to analyze in detailed form the adverse effects that cause tannins, inhibitors of protease, lectins, vicina and convicina, oligosaccharides, saponins, fítico acid, L-Drug, in the diverse physiological, metabolic processes and enzymatic since they interfere in the digestibility of the nutrients, block the mineral use, they promote the lost one of endogenous protein, exacerbate the neurotransmission in the nervous system, alter the immunological system, digestive upheavals, produces anatomical damages and structural, they slow down the growth of the animals specially when its consumption is in intensive form, by such reason is essential to know the dynamics of these compounds to be able to a great extent take advantage of the nutritious quality the seeds in the different production systems when including them in balanced diets.

Several plants species have served as food for man because of their nutritional values. However, there is a lack of data on the nutritional benefits of Desplatsia dewevrei. Hence, this study was aimed at investigating the nutrients and chemical composition of D. dewevrei leaves and fruits. Vitamins, amino acid profile, and mineral composition of D. dewevrei were investigated. Minerals found present include copper, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Vitamins B, C, and K up to the daily standard required intake levels according to World Health Organization standards were discovered in D. dewevrei. The protein score from the amino acid composition was 100%. Phytate and oxalate, which are non‐nutritional components, were found present in D. dewevrei; however, in values far below the daily intake required limit by the WHO standard. In conclusion, D. dewevrei from this research finding has convincing qualities of a reliable nutraceutical raw material, which can be properly finished and incorporated into the human diet to harness its vitality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vicia (V.) ervilia, commonly termed as bitter vetch, produces grains belonging to legumes family. One of the factors limiting the usage of V. ervilia is the existence of large amounts of anti-nutritional factors in the grains thereof. Considering the importance of the anti-nutritional factors, the present study investigated the effect of different methods of soaking from V. ervilia grains on the reduction of antinutritional factors rates. All of the soaking methods were found considerably reducing the anti-nutritional factors rates in all treatments as compared to V. ervilia grain flour. It was also found out in the present study that alkaline treatment, provides for the highest reduction of hydrolysable and dense tannin, phenolic ingredients in contrast to the other methods. Moreover, considerable increase in canavanine ooze-out from V. ervilia was documented for aqueous and saline treatments. Among different treatments, the highest reduction in total phenolic compounds and tannins was observed in alkaline maceration, followed by acidic, aqueous and salt saline. Also the lowest amount of canavanine was observed in aqueous treatment and the highest amount in alkaline treatment. The results show that treatment method can be selected depending on the type of need to remove anti-nutritional compounds of V. ervilia seeds. So soaking in water and use of saline solutions is preferred to soaking in basic and acidic solutions for the latter damages to some nutrients under basic and acidic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calabash and bottle gourd seed were analyzed for their proximate, mineral, and anti-nutritional composition using standard techniques. The calcium, zinc, and phytate interrelationship was computed. The results showed that calabash and bottle gourd seeds contained 4.0 g/100g moisture, 45.0 and 47.8 g/100g crude fat, 37.2 and 35.0 g/100g crude protein, and 8.1 and 7.3 g/100g carbohydrates, respectively. The most abundant mineral element in the seed flours was potassium, while selenium and chromium were not detected. Antinutrients in the seed flours were tannic acid (1.21 and 1.70 mg/100g), phytin phosphorus (1.05 and 0.82 mg/100g), phytic acid (3.71 and 2.88 mg/100g), and oxalate (1.39 and 1.58 mg/g) in calabash and bottle gourds, respectively. The computed calcium, zinc, and phytate interrelationship showed that zinc bioavailability may not be impaired in diets based on these seed flours. Calabash and bottle gourd seeds are good sources of dietary proteins, crude fat, and nutritionally important minerals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to evaluate the proximate, functional properties, anti-nutritional factors, amino acid and sensory evaluation of extruded products from pearl millet and germinated pigeon pea. The pearl millet and germinated pigeon pea flour were prepared at different mixing ratios: Sample A (70% pearl millet flour and 30% germinated pigeon pea), B (80% pearl millet flour and 20% germinated pigeon pea) and C (90% pearl millet flour and 10% germinated pigeon pea). The formulated flours were extruded using Brabender laboratory single-screw extruder, at barrel temperature (120oC), feed moisture content 8% and screw speed (70 rpm). The following range of values were obtained for carbohydrate (55.6-57.6%), protein (11.7-14.6%), fat (11.5-12.7%), moisture (12.50-13.78%), fibre (2.23-2.61%) and ash (1.75-2.05%) content of the different proportion of pearl millet and germinated pigeon pea flour. The carbohydrate, protein and fibre contents of extruded products increased while moisture, fat and ash contents reduced. The functional properties of the extruded products increased when compared with the flours except for oil absorption capacity. The saponin and tannin levels were reduced possibly due to germination. Lysine was the highest essential amino acid obtained while the highest amino acid value was glutamic acid. It was observed from sensory evaluation that sample MPP1 (70% pearl millet and 30% germinated pigeon pea) was more acceptable to the panelists. This product can serve as a potential source of nutrients to prevent protein energy malnutrition, which may help in growth and development of children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proximate, minerals constituents and anti-nutritional factors of Hura crepitans seeds were evaluated. The results of the proximate analysis showed that 3.13%, 4.00%, 7.83%, 33.17%, 17.30%, 8.17%, 29.53% were the percentage composition of moisture, ash, crude lipid, crude protein, fibre and carbohydrate respectively. The calorific value was obtained to be 485.85±7.22 kJ/kg. The anti-nutritional analysis showed that phytate had the highest concentration of 20.28±0.90 while oxalate has the lowest concentration of 0.017±0.15 mg/100g dry weight respectively. The mineral analysis of Hura crepitans seed also indicates that Khas the highest value of238.33 mg/100g dry weight while Cd with a value 0.71±0.01 mg/100g dry weight has the least. The result shows that the H. crepitans seeds if properly utilized can serve as good source of minerals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to characterize 43 genotypes from five yam species [ Dioscorea rotundata (Poir), Dioscorea alata (Linn), Dioscorea bulbifera (Linn), Dioscorea cayenensis (Lam) and Dioscorea dumetorum (Kunith) Pax] which are major land races in Nigeria in terms of their chemical composition, nutritional, anti-nutritional and mineral bioavailability. Findings showed that there was genotypic variation in terms of chemical composition, mineral profile and bioavailability of the minerals among the germplasm. D. bulbifera had the highest cell wall carbohydrates, (cellulose: 3.2%, hemicelluloses, 2.1%, lignin, 1.1%, acid detergent fibre (ADF) 3.2%, neutral detergent fibre (NDF) 6.4%), D. rotundata had the highest oxalate (606 mg/kg). In conclusion, intra and inter-species variations exist among the yam germplasm in terms of their chemical composition, anti-nutritional and mineral bioavailability. Phytate content of the yam genotypes did not affect the bioavailability of Zn but Ca was affected significantly. The Ox:Ca ratio in most of the yam varieties were below one, thus bioavailability of Ca in yam by oxalate is variety dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many researchers in Nigeria have worked extensively on how to improve the nutrient value of existing complementary foods, but silent on the microbial and safety of the product. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of processing method on antinutritional, microbial and sensory quality of maize-millet-soybean complementary food. Maize, millet, and soybean grains were processed using submerged fermentation, germination and roasting methods (120 ± 5 °C) combined. Four complementary food samples (including the control) were formulated and mixed in ratio 50:30:20 maize, millet, and soybean respectively, and analyzed for antinutritional factors, microbial quality, total aflatoxin, and sensory attributes. Results showed that combining fermentation or germination with roasting method significantly (p<0.05) reduced phytic acid and amylase inhibitor by 83% and 41%, respectively. Microbial and aflatoxin contents of the complementary food samples were significantly reduced compared to control sample. Fungal spp, Salmonella-Shigella, Cronobacter spp, and aflatoxin contamination were not detected in fermented and roasted sample. Fermented and roasted sample was significantly preferred (p<0.05) than other samples in terms of colour, texture, and overall acceptability. The study showed that combination of fermentation and roasting methods significantly reduced microbial loads and enhanced safety and sensory acceptability of complementary food produced from maize-millet-soybean for infants and young children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice bean ( Vigna umbellata) is grown in South and Southeast Asia, and the bean has gained importance due to its nutritional strength in terms of dietary fiber, quality protein and minerals. In current study, the nutritional and functional components, cooking and thermo-gravimetric properties of eleven rice bean varieties from NE India were investigated. Results revealed that the major nutrients among the varieties ranged as follows: 54.21-60.49% carbohydrates, 15.64-21.60% protein, 1.22-2.3% fat, 5.53-6.56% crude fibre, 3.34-3.8% ash; while the functional, anti-nutritional factors and mineral were present as 1189.32-1645.8 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g polyphenols, 205.38-432.14 mg/100 g phytic acid, 23.14-34.12 mg/100 g oxalate, 690.7-1589.5 mg/100 g saponins, 49.90-158.17 μg/100 g hydrocyanide, 111.51-168 calcium, 5.50-10.44 zinc, 3.72-8.37 iron. Principal component analysis revealed that varieties with higher calcium, iron and ash content had lower cooking time, swelling ratio, and cooked grain hardness. It is also revealed that varieties with higher weight loss at sixth stage in thermogravimetric graph had lower carbohydrate and higher protein content. Nagadal variety had higher fat, potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium, iron, copper and chromium content and better cooking quality as compared to the other varieties. The study revealed that Nagadal variety was superior to other varieties with respect to mineral content, cooking and thermal properties and hence have better potential in the development of value added products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nigerian hog plum (Spondias mombin) seed kernel was studied for its possible antioxidative potential and its proximate and nutrient compositions measured. The fruits were submitted to washing, pulp removal and drying to facilitate fibre separation from the seed kernel. Seeds were Milled to obtain samples, while analysis was carried out using standard Association of Analytical Communities (AOAC) methods and phytochemical assays. The seed kernel contains carbohydrate (40.56%), ash (8.09%), crude fibre (31.86%), moisture content (8.48%), crude protein (7.73%), crude fat (3.28%), calcium (1317 mg/kg), iron (839.08 mg/kg), magnesium (494.71 mg/kg), manganese (17.93 mg/kg), zinc (15.27 mg/kg), and copper (7.68 mg/kg). Phytochemical analyses indicated the presence of tannins (0.06%) and phytate (0.0022%), but did not indicate the presence of flavonoids, oxalate and saponins. The free radical scavenging activity against the 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical was at the level of 15.09%, while total antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content were 856.7±5.84 mgAAE/100g and 573.32±11.5 mgGAE/100g respectively. The seed kernel of Spondias mombin is a potential source of nutritious food, good anti-anaemic and anti-diabetic agent as a result of iron and zinc content, and potential chemo-protective agent with the ability to offer possible protection against the activities of the toxic Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) from the results of total phenolic content, antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional, anti-nutritional, and anti-mutagenic activities of the fresh and boiled Paeonia emodi leaves were analyzed. Significantly higher vitamin A (64.19 ± 0.18 mg/100 g), C (160.50 ± 1.85 mg/100 g), and E (1.25 ± 0.00 μg/g) contents were recorded in boiled as compared to fresh and dried juvenile leaves. Similarly, significantly higher protein content (329.63 ± 0.33 mg/100 g) was found in boiled budding leaves, carbohydrate content in fresh juvenile (0.353 ± 0.02) and mature leaves (0.353±0.10 mg/g) , methionine content (47.75 ± 0.09 mg/g) in dried budding stage leaves, and proline content (1.23 ± 0.12 μM/g) in dried mature leaves. Anti-nutritional attributes like phytic acid (250.17 ± 0.19 mg/100 g; p < 0.05) and total tannins (48.41 ± 0.09 mg/g) were significantly higher in dried and fresh budding leaves, respectively; however, trypsin inhibition activity (91.90 ± 0.34 %) was observed in dried juvenile leaves. Significantly higher 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activity (71.13 ± 0.09 mM AAE/100 g) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) activity (3.39 ± 0.01 mM AAE/100 g) were recorded higher in dried budding leaves. On the other hand, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay (3.55 ± 0.017 mM AAE/100 g) and OH ions (1.69 ± 0.01 mM AAE/100 g) were significantly higher in boiled juvenile leaves and dried mature leaves, respectively. Anti-mutagenic activity of P. emodi extract revealed varying levels of protection against DNA damaging agents. The aqueous extract of P. emodi at budding leaves (500 μg dried) showed comparatively better protective activity as compared to other growth stages. Results of this investigation indicated that the species have nutritional and medicinal value and therefore can be a potential source for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the physical, physicochemical and anti-nutritional properties of Horse Chestnut (HCN) seed. The average length, width and thickness of the seeds were 4.70, 4.00 and 3.20 cm, respectively. Geometric and arithmetic mean diameter were 3.92 and 3.97 cm. Average sphericity and aspect ratio of the seeds were 83.40 and 85.11 %, respectively. The true density, bulk density, density ratio and porosity values of the seeds were 1072, 518 g/cm3, 48.32 and 51.68 %, respectively. The angle of repose for the seeds obtained on plywood, mild steel, stainless steel and galvanized sheet was 22.30°, 20.30°, 18.30° and 22.79° respectively. The coefficient of static friction of the seeds obtained on plywood, mild steel, stainless steel and galvanized sheet was 0.54, 0.52, 0.51 and 0.52, respectively. The average force required to break the seed was 328 N. The L * , a * , and b * color values of seed flour were found to be 92.07, 3.47 and 13.70 respectively. Proximate composition of the seed flour revealed 10.71 % moisture, 3.16 % ash, 6.34 % crude fibre, 3.27 % fat, 6.78 % protein, 69.74 % carbohydrate, 10.15 % sugar and 59.59 % starch and energy value of 327.51 cal/100 g. Anti-nutritional factors of the seed flour were determined in terms of oxalate, phytate, tannin and saponin. Pre-treatments including soaking and microwave heating showed significant reduction of anti-nutritional factors of the seed flour. Microwave heating at 2450 MHz for 2.5 min showed higher reduction of 95.45, 91.66, 68.15 and 87.20 % in oxalate, phytate, tannin and saponin content respectively. Knowledge of physical properties of HCN seeds can be useful in designing equipment for postharvest handling and processing operations. Pre-treatments for reduction of anti-nutritional components of the seeds can be helpful for utilization of HCN seed in different food formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research studied the fumigant toxicity, repellent property, durability and anti-nutritional efficiency of essential oil of E. kruseana on the adults of lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica F. The essential oil was extracted using Clevenger apparatus and its chemical composition analyzed by GC-MS. 1,8-cineole (69.0%), α-thujene (10.0%), E-caryophyllene (5.87%) and Trans-pinocarveol (4.4%) were identified as main components. The results indicated that LC50 of E. kruseana essential oil was 27.98 μl/l air and increasing the concentration of essential oil caused the increases in the mortality. LT50 values were calculated as 4.16, 3.63 and 2.87 h at 100, 200 and 500 μl/l air, respectively. The calculated LT50 so as to study the durability of E. kruseana essential oil on R. dominica adults was 6.47 days. It was clear from the repellency index that E. kruseana essential oil has strong repellency at 70, 140 and 280 μl/l air concentration. The results showed that E. kruseana essential oil has significantly affected the RGR (Relative Growth Rate), RCR (Relative Consumption Rate) and FDI (Feeding Deterrence Index) of R. dominica adults and it was concentration-dependent. The Efficiency of Conversion of Ingested food (ECI) has decreased while the concentrations are not statistically different at 5% level compared to the control group. The above findings suggest that the essential oil of Eucalyptus kruseana can play an important role in pest control and reduce the need for synthetic insecticides and also the risks associated with their use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality aspects of food crops have globally important market economic and health repercussions in the current climate of food security. Grain legumes have high potential for the nutritional quality improvement of foods, but limited data on manipulating seed quality is available as the primary focus has been hitherto on phenotypic and agronomic trait improvement. This has resulted in a lack of innovation and low attractiveness of legume food products that, with the emergence of novel food habits, have together contributed to reduced legume food consumption. This trend now needs to be challenged and circumvented. In this review we have assessed the key factors affecting the nutritional quality of legume seeds such as protein, starch, dietary fiber, natural antioxidant compounds and anti-nutritional factors. All have been reviewed with emphasis on how these components might influence consumer acceptance and functional properties of legume based food products. Biofortification approaches and technological processing are discussed as ways in which the nutritional value of legumes and their consumption might be enhanced. In order to increase consumption of grain legumes, we propose that efforts should concentrate on identifying nutritionally enhanced and genetically diverse germplasm, and on linking genetics with sensorial and processing quality. This will assist the development of breeding/selection tools for traits that determine consumer demand, facilitating the implementation of quality breeding objectives in legume breeding programs. Equally important, efforts should focus on developing attractive, convenient ready-to-eat and tasty legume-based food formulations, contributing to the diversification of healthier and more nutritional diets. As a result of such a targeted effort, legume cultivation and consumption could be enhanced leading to a reduction in both the global economic burden caused by malnutrition and associated chronic diseases, and the environmental impact of agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Akara (deep-fat fried balls) prepared from cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) paste is widely consumed in West Africa as a cheap source of protein. Jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis) is also rich in protein but is under-utilized in many parts of Africa due to the presence of several anti-nutritional factors. Jack bean was therefore subjected to different pre-processing methods (cracked-soaked, cracked-boiled and germinated) to reduce the anti-nutritional content before conversion into flours. Composite blends of the pre-processed jack beans and cowpea flour in different proportions of 95:05, 90:10, 85:15, 80:20 and 50:50 for each of the pre-processing methods was used in the production of akara. The proximate, pasting, functional and anti-nutritional properties of the flours as well as the proximate and anti-nutritional properties of the akara were determined using AOAC methods. The protein content of the cracked-boiled jack bean with 50% cowpea composite flour was the highest (23.65%), while germinated jack bean composite flour with 80% cowpea flour had the lowest (20.85%). Similarly, the protein content of the akara balls produced from cracked-boiled jack bean with 50% cowpea composite flour had the highest protein value (13.15%). Generally, the functional properties, except for water and oil absorption capacities were higher in cracked-boiled than in cracked-soaked and germinated jack bean composite flours. The pre-processing methods significantly (p ≤ 0.05) affected the pasting properties of the composite flours, while the anti-nutritional factors such as protease inhibitor and saponins were not detected in the akara balls. Germination of jack bean decreased tannin content than cracked-boiled and cracked-soaked, while soaking decreased the phytates levels than germination and boiling methods. Sensory attributes of the akara were significantly different (p≤ 0.05) from each other with the germinated jack bean composite flour with 50% cowpea flour having the highest rating for all the attributes measured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study examined the effect of increasing inclusion levels of various polysaccharides on the dry matter, protein and energy digestibility of diets fed to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The different polysaccharides included pregelatinised starch, cellulose, lignosulphonate, pectin and mannan. There were significant differences among the digestibility parameters of the diets with the different inclusion levels of each of the different polysaccharide types. Using a MANOVA analysis effects were noted for polysaccharide type, inclusion level and interaction terms on the digestibilities of dry matter, protein and energy. Cellulose addition resulted in a reduction in both dry matter and energy that was largely commensurate with its inclusion level, but its effect on protein digestibility was marginal. Starch had the least effect on any of the digestibility parameters of all the polysaccharide types examined. At low inclusion levels lignosulphonate was observed to have the greatest impact on all digestibility parameters, particularly on protein digestibility. These results show that different polysaccharide classes can have distinctly different effects on diet digestibility parameters. The results also show that some classes of polysaccharide have greater effects than others. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study examined the effect of increasing inclusion levels of soluble and insoluble lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) fibres, and purified cellulose on the dry matter, protein and energy digestibility of diets fed to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Soluble and insoluble fibre fractions from lupin kernel meal were produced using differential pH solubilities. There were significant differences among the digestibility parameters of the diets with different inclusion levels of each of the different fibre types, except for the soluble lupin fibre, which had limited effect on any digestibility parameters. Differences among diets in dry matter and energy digestibility were most distinct. Using an ANOVA analysis no significant differences were noted for diet protein digestibilities with any of the fibre types. However, regression analysis of the effect of fibre inclusion levels showed significant effects on all digestibility parameters, including protein digestibilities. The lupin insoluble NSP also had a greater effect on dry matter and energy digestibilities than that of cellulose, with findings suggesting that it also affected the digestibility of additional nutrients in the diet to a degree not seen with cellulose. These results show that different fibre classes can have distinctly different effects on diet digestibility parameters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Canola meal is highly regarded as a component of animal feed with a high protein content and a desirable amino acid profile. The presence of some components, in particular glucosinolates, sinapine and fibre, affects the value of the meal and reduces the amount that can be used in animal feed formulations. Glucosinolates in traditional cultivars (rapeseed) had very high amounts and this severely limited the usefulness of the meal. Canola breeding programs have successfully reduced glucosinolate content to trace amounts. However sinapine remains at levels sufficiently high to cause problems, particularly in poultry feed. The relatively high fibre level in canola also reduces the value of the product for animal feed. This study has determined the level of sinapine, glucosinolates and fibre in current cultivars of canola in Australia to illustrate advances made by breeding programs and limitations which still remain to raise the usefulness of a potentially valuable feedstock. Although glucosinolate levels in meal were shown to have been reduced to 11µlmol/g in some cases, sinapine remained at traditional levels of about 12-15 g/kg and neutral detergent fibre levels were about 30-40%. These issues are important priorities for canola breeders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of this paper was to study a method based on gas production technique to measure the biological effects of tannins on rumen fermentation. Six feeds were used as fermentation substrates in a semi-automated gas method: feed A –aroeira (Astronium urundeuva); feed B –jurema preta (Mimosa hostilis), feed C – sorghum grains (Sorghum bicolor); feed D – Tifton-85 (Cynodon sp.); and two others prepared mixing 450g sorghum leaves, 450g concentrate (maize and soybean meal) and 100g either of acacia (Acacia mearnsii) tannin extract (feed E) or quebracho (Schinopsis lorentzii) tannin extract (feed F) per kg (w:w). Three assays were carried out to standardize the bioassay for tannins. The first assay compared two binding agents (polyethylene glycol – PEG – and polyvinyl polypirrolidone – PVPP) to attenuate the tannin effects. The complex formed by PEG and tannins showed to be more stable than PVPP and tannins. Then, in the second assay, PEG was used as binding agent, and this assay was done to evaluate levels of PEG (0, 500, 750, 1000 and 1250mg/g DM) to minimize the tannin effect. All the tested levels of PEG produced a response to evaluate tannin effects but the best response was for dose of 1000mg/g DM. Using this dose of PEG, the final assay was carried out to test three compounds (tannic acid, quebracho extract and acacia extract) to establish a curve of biological equivalent effect of tannins. For this, five levels of each compound were added to 1g of a standard feed (Lucerne hay). The equivalent effect showed not to be directly related to the chemical analysis for tannins. It was shown that different sources of tannins had different activities or reactivities. The curves of biological equivalence can provide information about tannin reactivity and its use seems to be important as an additional factor for chemical analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]