Comparative analysis of selected nutrients in Pereskia species

Abstract This investigation undertakes a comparative quantitative assessment of the macronutrient and micronutrient profiles of Pereskia grandifolia (Haworth) and Pereskia aculeata (Miller), commonly known as Ora-pro-nóbis, categorized as Non-Conventional Food Plants (NCFPs), juxtaposing these profiles against established food crops. Quantitative analysis revealed that both Pereskia species exhibit elevated concentrations of micronutrients such as iron and zinc, surpassing those of Phaseolus vulgaris (Linnaeus) and Lens culinaris (Linnaeus). Specifically, solubilized zinc levels in P. aculeata (13.6 mg/100g) and P. grandifolia (13.9 mg/100g) exceed those of lentils (7.5 mg/100g) and beets (3.7 mg/100g). Similarly, solubilized iron levels in P. grandifolia (12.4 mg/100g) and P. aculeata (10.5 mg/100g) surpass those of lentils (3.0 mg/100g) and beets (3.8 mg/100g). However, phytate levels are comparatively lower in the Pereskia species, with P. grandifolia demonstrating reduced concentrations at 1500 mg/kg, alongside significant preponderance in protein (20.8 g/100g) and nitrogen (14.6 g/100g). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was applied, demonstrating a strong associative propensity of iron, zinc, and protein with the Pereskia genus. In contrast, Pearson's correlation coefficients elucidated a complex interdependency among the nutrient variables, except for an inverse correlation between phytate concentration and both iron and protein levels. In conclusion, this research sheds light on the enriched nutritional profiles of P. grandifolia and P. aculeata, emphasizing their potential as valuable dietary resources.