Nutrient Composition of Lasianthera africana (NKANKA) and its Spoilage Moulds

Abstract

The research on the nutrient composition of Lasianthera africana (Nkanka) and its spoilage moulds was carried out in the Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology Rivers State University Portharcourt. The nkanka leaves were purchased from Mile 3 Market in Portharcourt and was analysed in the laboratory of of Plant Science and Biotechnology, Rivers State University. The results of the proximate analysis of Lasianthera africana leaves revealed that the leaves are rich in moisture (65.45±0.07%) ash (4.515±0.01%), lipid (3.515±0.02%) fibre (6.48±0.06%), carbohydrate (3.34±0.07%) and protein (16.70±0.07%) respectively. Mineral assessment revealed the presence of Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium and vitamin C, A and B1. Phytochemical composition showed the presence of Glycoside, Oxalate, saponins, tannins, carotenoid, polyphenol, flavonoid and lignant. The fungal characterization produced three organisms viz; Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus sp, and Mucor sp with perentage incidences of 60% and 20% respectively. In conclusion, lasianthera africana leaves should be regularly consumed as they are used for the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentry, stomach troubles, ulcers and diabetes and also they are prone to fungal contaminations. Therefore, proper care should be taken during harvest and storage to reduce contamination