Proximate analysis of pepper grown in Akwa Ibom state

Description

Proximate analysis of pepper grown in Akwa Ibom state.

Abstract

The study was about proximate analysis of pepper grown in Akwa Ibom state using Ikot Ekpene local government area as the study area. Three pepper varieties (Capsicum annuum, Capsicum genus, and Capsicum frutescens) were analyzed. The three pepper varieties were harvested fresh from farms in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. The samples were washed with distilled water and thinly sliced, (diameter of 1.0±0.1cm and thickness of 3.4mm), and then treated with concentrated chlorine solution. These samples were oven dried at temperature of 60OC for 24 hours. The samples were ground with a working blender and stored in air-tight containers. The results of the analysis showed that the proximate composition of Capsicum genus was significantly (p0.05) higher than those of Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens in moisture and carbohydrate contents. Capsicum annuum was significantly (p0.05) higher than those of Capsicum genus and Capsicum frutescens in fat and fiber, (insoluble and soluble) contents. Capsicum frutescens was significantly (p0.05) higher than those of Capsicum annuum and Capsicum genus in protein and ash contents. Vitamins composition showed that Capsicum annuum was significantly (p0.05) higher than those of Capsicum genus and Capsicum frutescens in vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, niacin, vitamin B6, folic acid, and vitamin K. Mineral contents analysis showed that Capsicum annuum was significantly (p0.05) higher those of Capsicum frutescens and Capsicum genus in calcium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. Capsicum genus was significantly (p0.05) higher than those of Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens in potassium, iron and cobalt contents. The results of this analysis revealed that the three pepper varieties have high nutritive values and can be used to remediate diseases and sustain health through the use as a nutraceutical. .