NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF BAOBA
Abstract
This study investigated the nutritional composition of baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) with emphasis on its proximate composition, amino acid profile, vitamin content, and overall nutritional potential. Baobab samples were collected from Niger State Polytechnic, Zungeru, Nigeria, and analyzed using standard AOAC methods. Proximate analysis revealed that baobab powder contains appreciable amounts of protein (28.5%), carbohydrates (38.0%), crude fibre (9.0%), and ash (13.5%), indicating a rich nutrient and mineral composition. Amino acid analysis showed the presence of both essential and non-essential amino acids, with histidine, glycine, and glutamic acid occurring in notable quantities, supporting its value as a functional plant protein source. Vitamin analysis indicated that baobab is rich in vitamins such as vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, vitamin A (β-carotene), vitamin E, and vitamin K, contributing to its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. The findings demonstrate that baobab is a nutrient-dense plant with significant potential for addressing nutritional deficiencies, improving food security, and supporting its use in food fortification, nutraceuticals, and functional food development, especially in developing regions.
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