Proximate and antinutrient compositions of indigenous okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)

Abstract

The promotion and consumption of indigenous vegetables could help to mitigate food insecurity and alleviate malnutrition in developing countries. Okra is a powerhouse of valuable nutrients, nearly half of which is soluble fibre in the form of gums and pectins which help to lower serum cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart diseases. The presence of phytate in the human diet has a negative effect on mineral uptake. Nutrient and antinutrient compositions of ten genotypes (GAO 5, AOL 12-55, AOL 10-22, AOL 13-73, AOL 13-75, AOL 13-88, AOL 13-90, Parbhanikranti, pusasawani and wild type) of okra fruits were investigated. The result of the study revealed that the proximate composition (g/100 g) in fresh weight basis was significantly (P