Effect of cultivar and growing location on the mineral composition of canola sprouts

Abstract

Sprouts from seeds of cruciferous plants, such as brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower (Brassica sp.) are considered desirable for human diets. However, no information is available about sprouts made from seeds of canola (Brassica napus L.), a cruciferous crop that is increasing in acreage in the United States and is considered a source of healthful, edible oil. This study reports contents of aluminum (Al), boron (B), calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), sodium (Na), phosphorus (P), sulfur (S), and zinc (Zn) in sprouts made from seeds of four canola cultivars (Banjo, KS 8200, KS 8227, and Virginia) grown at three locations (Orange, Petersburg, and Suffolk) in Virginia during two crop seasons (2001-02 and 2002-03). The contents of protein, oil, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, and Na (expressed as percent on a dry weight basis) in canola sprouts were 27.33, 25.1, 0.61, 0.43, 0.43, 0.31, 0.57, and 0.01, respectively. The contents of B, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn (expressed as mg·kg-1) in canola sprouts were 12.35, 5.69, 88.46, 45.44, and 48.98, respectively. Contents of various minerals in canola sprouts were greater than those in sprouts of alfalfa, brussels sprouts, mungbean, and radish reported in the literature. It was concluded that canola sprouts are a potential component of diets for superior human nutrition.