Proximate composition of wild and on-farm Tamarindus indica linn fruits in the agro-ecological zones of Uganda

Abstract

Wild edible plants are known to make important contributions to food baskets and livelihoods in the smallholder and subsistence farming communities of sub-Saharan Africa.1 The legumes, many of which are wild and indigenous plants, are major sources of plant protein, fats and essential amino acids2 and the nutritional values of legumes are of great importance.3 The nutritional values of indigenous fruit bearing tree species show that many are rich in phytochemicals, which include glucosides, essential vitamins and minerals while some are high in fat, protein and crude fibre.4 According to Pereira et al.,5 non-conventional fruits and vegetables can be richer in fibre and compounds with antioxidant functions than conventional foods. Food composition data are extremely important for the development of food composition tables, consumption of balanced nutrients, assessment of the supply and food consumption of a country.6 In addition, verification of the nutritional adequacy of the diets of individuals and populations, evaluation of nutritional status, and development of research regarding the relations between diet and disease, agricultural planning, and food industry introduction.6