Chemical Composition of Saskatoon Berries ( Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt.)

ABSTRACT Saskatoon berries, Amelanchier alnifolia , have been analyzed for moisture, soluble solids, protein, fat, fiber, Ca, P, S, K, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ba, Mo, Al, and carotene content. The composition of saskatoon berries was compared to that of blueberries ( Vaccinium sp.). There were significantly higher amounts of protein, fat, fiber, calcium, magnesium, manganese, barium, and aluminum, and lower contents of phosphorus and sulfur in Saskatoon berries than in blueberries. No significant difference in iron, zinc, sodium and carotene content was found between saskatoons and the other fruit. On a dry weight basis, saskatoons contained less sugars than blueberries. Although bioavailability of the minerals was not determined, saskatoons appear to be an excellent source of manganese, magnesium and iron and a relatively good source of calcium, potassium, copper, and carotene.