Work

Chemical and nutritional profile of Tunisian Corchorus olitorius leaves: a valuable, under-exploited leafy vegetable

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study details the chemical and nutritional profile of Tunisian Corchorus olitorius leaves. Proximate analysis revealed high levels of dietary fiber (46.4 ± 3.7 g/100 g DM), starch (13.6 ± 1.2 g/100 g DM), and protein (15.4 ± 0.4 g/100 g DM). The protein fraction is rich in essential amino acids, exceeding WHO/FAO/UNU (2007) recommendations for adults, indicating its potential as a plant-based protein source. Despite a low lipid content (3.5 ± 0.4 g/100 g DM), the fatty acid profile is nutritionally balanced, dominated by palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids. C. olitorius also contains a significant ash content (9.3 ± 0.1 g/100 g DM), with high iron (44.9 ± 2.4 mg/100 g DM) and potassium (2348.0 ± 178.5 mg/100 g DM) levels which may contribute to the prevention of deficiencies. The polysaccharides’ fraction includes starch, cellulose, pectin, and hemicellulose, suggesting potential for use as natural thickeners or stabilizers in food formulations. LC-MS characterization of secondary metabolites revealed phenolic compounds and flavonoids such as chlorogenic acid, quercetin and kaempferol derivatives, supporting antioxidant potential. These findings highlight C. olitorius as a valuable leafy vegetable for the production of high-value nutritional and functional ingredients.

Source: LWT

DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2025.118393

Authors: Emma Bonnot, Ombéline Claux, Mounir Boulkout, Agnès Rolland-Sabaté, Maryline Abert-Vian

Institutions: Université d'Avignon et des Pays de Vaucluse, Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement, Sécurité et Qualité des Produits d'Origine Végétale

Language: English

Topic: Food and Agricultural Sciences

Subfield: Food Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,240