Physico-chemical composition of Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin fruit) pulp

Abstract

This study investigated the chemical composition of Telfairia occidentalis (Fluted pumpkin fruit) pulp, an agricultural waste. Results revealed that fluted pumpkin fruit pulp contains: 9.34% moisture, 2.10% protein, 1.89% crude lipid, 60.28% carbohydrate, 11.12% crude fibre, 15.27% ash, 1.40% Lignin, 38.60% Hemicelluloses and 20.30% Cellulose. It is a promising alternative to fossil fuels. The utilization of agricultural residues and wastes in the chemical industry is a cost effective and environmentally friendly approach for sustainable development. Considering the recent research progress in the fields of biofuel, utilizing agricultural wastes will certainly prove to be a feasible technology to achieve energy security in the nearest future.