Annatto seed residue (Bixa orellana L.): nutritional quality

• Main Author: Valério,Melissa Alessandra
• Publication Date: 2015
• Other Authors: Ramos,Maria Isabel Lima, Braga Neto,José Antônio, Macedo,Maria Lígia Rodrigues
• Format: Article
• Language: eng
• Source: Food Science and Technology (Campinas)
• Download full: http://old.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0101-20612015000200326
• topic: biological value; protein quality; annatto

Considering that annatto seeds are rich in protein, the present work aimed to evaluate the biological quality of this nutrient in the meal residue originating from annatto seed processing. We determined the general composition, mineral levels, amino acid composition and chemical scores, antinutritional factors, and protein quality using biological assays. The following values were obtained: 11.50% protein, 6.74% moisture, 5.22% ash, 2.22% lipids, 42.19% total carbohydrates and 28.45% fiber. The residue proved to be a food rich in fiber and also a protein source. Antinutritional factors were not detected. The most abundant amino acids were lysine, phenylalanine + tyrosine, leucine and isoleucine. Valine was the most limiting amino acid (chemical score 0.22). The protein quality of the seed residue and the isolated protein showed no significant differences. The biological value was lower than that of the control protein but higher than that found in other vegetables. Among the biochemical analyses, only creatinine level was decreased in the two test groups compared to the control group. Enzyme tests did not indicate liver toxicity. The results showed favorable aspects for the use of annatto seed residue in the human diet, meriting further research.