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Abstract: The inflorescence of torch ginger (Etlingera elatior Jack., Family Zingiberaceae) was analyzed to identify its nutritional and anti-nutritional contents. The inflorescence had significant amount of crude protein (12.6%), fat (18.2%) and fiber content (17.6%). Fatty acid profile was composed with high level of unsaturated fatty acids (palmitoleic acid 16.4%> linoleic acid 14.5% >Oleic acid 5.2%). The amino acid profiles revealed the presence of essential amino acids dominated by leucine and lysine (7.2 and 7.9 mg/100 mg protein, respectively). The inflorescence contained major minerals like: K (1589 mg/100 g), Ca (775 mg/100g), Mg (327 mg/100 g), P (286 mg/10 0g) and S (167 mg/100 g). The levels of antinutrients analyzed were 3496 and 2851 mg/100g for saponin and phytic acid, respectively. The heavy metals analyzed (Cd, As, Pb, Hg, Ni) were below detection limits. Results obtained confirm the usefulness of torch ginger inflorescence as a potential functional food and could be further explored in new food products and formulations.
Keywords: Torch ginger, proximate composition, fatty acid, amino acids, minerals, antinutrients
Introduction
Most of the food components including macro- and micro-nutrients play important role as a nutraceutical, and provides potential health benefits (Bernal et al., 2010). Dietary fiber, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), proteins, amino acids, minerals, vitamins and other bioactive compounds are considered as beneficial nutrient components (Andlauer and Fürst, 2002). Torch ginger (Etlingera elatior) is a popular plant in South-East Asia wherein their inflorescences are traditionally used for culinary and medicinal purposes. The inflorescence possesses a unique flavor and aroma and is used in preparing traditional dishes like: Ulam and Asam laksa in Malaysia (Chan et al., 2007; Wijekoon et al., 2010). Traditionally, it is believed that daily intake of raw inflorescence can reduce diabetes and hypertension. Also, the inflorescence consumed along with bitter leaves (Vernonia amygdalina) is believed to relieve flatulence in postpartum women (Mai et al., 2009).
Reports available have shown torch ginger to exhibit rich antioxidant, anticancer and antimicrobial activities (Habsah et al., 2005; Chan et al., 2007, 2008; Wijekoon et al., 2010; Lachumy et al., 2010). However, to our knowledge, no reports are available on the nutritional qualities of torch ginger inflorescence. Hence, the present study is an attempt to fill-in this existing gap by assessing the nutritional composition and...