Assessment of Micronutrients of Solanum aethiopicum and Solanum melongena Fruits Consumed in Burkina Faso

Abstract

Aim: In Burkina Faso, low micronutrients intake is one of factors responsible of under five years children malnutrition. Research on local food to find best vegetables rich in micronutrients is a way to improve children nutrition. The aim of this study is to assess micronutrients content of Solanum aethiopicum and Solanum melongena grown in Burkina Faso. Methodology: From three markets of Ouagadougou city, fresh samples of fruits of the two plants have been purchased. After one month drying in laboratory at 25°C, the dried samples were used to determine content of of Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Potassium (K) , Sodium (Na), Phosphor (P), Iron (Fe) and Zinc (Zn) using flam photometer and atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results: The results showed high content of K, Mg and Ca in the fruits. The content of Na, P is also satisfying. Fe and Zn known as trace elements are also well represented in the two fruits. The values were 3582, 187, 126, 87, 29, 21 and 2 mg/100 g for K, Mg, Ca, Na, P, Fe and Zn, respectively for the fruits of S. aethiopicum. S. melongena fruits had 2991, 317, 207, 135, 30, 6 and 4 mg/100 g for K, Ca, Mg, Na, P, Fe and Zn, respectively.  Conclusion: These two fruits are important sources of micronutrients and must be included in children diet to improve their nutritional status.