Characterization of nutrient composition of three nakati genotypes from central Uganda

Abstract

The promotion and consumption of indigenous vegetables could help mitigate food insecurity and alleviate human malnutrition in developing countriesSolanum aethiopicum is a very important vegetable rich in both micro and macro nutrients compared with other vegetables and is suitable for ensuring food and nutritional security.With respect to this,three genotypes of Nakati Central one,Central two and Central three previously studied for their phenotypic traits were evaluated for minerals(N,P,K,Mg,Fe,Zn and Ca)by parts leaves,stalks and berries.Nutrient content did not differ significantly(p>0.05) amongst the three genotypes but there was significant difference for Mg,P,K between the parts(p<0.05).Central one had the highest Fe,P&N compared to the other genotypes,The highest amount of Ca and Zn content were found in central two compared to the other genotypes and Central three had highest amount of Mg and K.The study revealed that these genotypes are important sources of most vital nutrients.Increased production and consumption of these nutrient rich genotypes of Nakati will help reduce nutrition related issues in Uganda .