Vol. 8, Issue 2 (2019)

Author(s):
RD Arun Raj

Abstract:
In the current study, detailed nutritional composition of the wild edible fruit, Salacia fruticosa Wall. ex M.A. Lawson, consumed by Kanis, an indigenous tribal community residing in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, Southern Western Ghats was determined for the first time. All values were determined on fresh weight basis. Results indicated that the fruits have a high moisture content of 87.4 ± 0.44/100g while the carbohydrate content observed was 10.03 ± 0.20g in 100g of edible portion. The energy value was 39kcal/100 g. The ascorbic acid and Vitamin E composition noted were 60.94 ± 2.54mg and 0.18 ± 0.008 mg/100g respectively. Potassium was the most abundant mineral element (26mg/100g) analyzed. The current study emphasized the fact that this minor fruit is a potential source of the bioactive liposoluble pigment, β carotene, and the mean value observed was 70µg /100 g which is well comparable with many commercial fruits.