Physicochemical properties of some Magnifera indica (L.) seeds in South South Nigeria

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the physicochemical composition of selected mango seed samples from four markets in South South Nigeria. Saigon cultivars of ripe mango were randomly collected from four markets in South South Nigeria, then identified and authenticated. The seeds were de-pulped using a sharp knife and then analyzed for physical, proximate, mineral and main organic elements such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, sulphur and nitrogen. The width, length, thickness, sphericity, roundness and true density, were observed to be high in Igbudu market (15.01± 0.01) mm, Igbudu market (42.27 ± 0.15) mm, Kaima market (0.56 ± 0.03) mm, Igbudu market (7.23 ± 0.03) %, Kaima market (38.27 ± 0.03) %, Oba market (78.89 ± 025) g/cm3. High ash content, fat content, moisture content, crude fibre and crude protein were obtained from Oba market (0.86 ± 0.10) %, (4.86 ± 0.24) %, (20.74±0.10) %, Igbudu market (2.03 ± 0.04) and Kaima market (7.03 ± 0.15) %. High level of minerals and ultimate parameters were reported mainly in Oba market. Alphonso cultivars of Mangifera indica L. seeds have varying levels of physicochemical parameters. Some of these are taken into consideration during packaging and sorting, while others could determine how long it takes before the seed deteriorates or germinates and also shows that the seed can be a source of minerals.