Chemical Analysis of Noni ( Morinda citrofolia) Seeds and the Characterization of the Seeds Oil

Abstract

Seeds of Noni (Morinda citrofolia) were analyzed for proximate composition, minerals, anti-nutritional factors and amino acid profile, while the oil extract was investigated for physicochemical properties and fatty acids contents. Values for moisture, ash, crude protein, crude fat and crude fiber are 5.46 ± 0.01, 1.83 ± 0.01, 1.72 ± 0.02, 5.40 ± 0.07 and 4.67 ± 0.0 6% respectively. The calorific value of the seed was found to be 1585.90 KJ. The seed was found to be a potential source of minerals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, iron and zinc. The anti-nutritional factors such as alkaloid, cyanide, flavonoid, oxalate and saponin were determined. The essential amino acids: glutamic acid, leucine and aspartic acid are present in higher concentrations as 6.33, 6.31 and 5.11 mg/100g crude protein, respectively. The physical and chemical properties of the seed oil were determined, thus the saponification value of the oil was found to be 32.26 mg KOH/g.