Nutraceutical potential and compositional diversity of underutilized Makran Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cultivars
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: The Makran division of Balochistan, Pakistan possesses a wealth of indigenous date palm ( Phoenix dactylifera L.) cultivars whose nutraceutical potential and compositional diversity have never been systematically documented, despite their cultural and economic significance. Seven underutilized date palm cultivars: Halinee, Dandari, Shakari, Muzawati, Rabie, Shengeskan, and Zard Irani were investigated. Proximate analysis showed that the highest moisture content (44.80%), ash content (4.40%), and crude protein (4.80%) were observed in Muzawati, while crude lipid (1.73%) and crude fiber (4.00%) were highest in Shengeskan, and total carbohydrates (64.30%) in Shakari. Mineral profiling revealed that all cultivars were rich in essential elements, with Shengeskan showing the highest levels of calcium (789 mg/kg), magnesium (606 mg/kg), and sulfur (782 mg/kg), while Muzawati recorded the highest potassium content (8598 mg/kg). Total phenolic content was highest in Shakari and Muzawati (72.32 and 69.41 mg GAE/100 g, respectively), while Halinee exhibited the highest flavonoid content (0.37 mg QE/100 g). Halinee showed the highest α-tocopherol (52.45 mg/kg), Dandari exhibited the highest β-tocopherol (61.42 mg/kg), and Rabie showed the highest γ-tocopherol (99.57mg/kg). Antioxidant analysis demonstrated significant variation among cultivars ( p < 0.05), with Shengeskan and Dandari exhibiting the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity (78.90% and 76.60%, respectively). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) further identified Muzawati, Shengeskan, Rabie and Dandari as the most promising cultivars for nutritional and nutraceutical applications. These findings highlight the exceptional nutritional and bioactive potential of Makran date palm cultivars, positioning them as promising candidates for innovation in functional foods, nutraceutical applications, and commercial exploitation. Makran dates inclusion in the global market could enhance dietary diversity and contribute to sustainable food security, warranting further research and investment in their development.
Source: Research Square
Institution: University of Balochistan
Language: English
Topic: Date Palm Research Studies
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7166016142