Browse

Journals By Subject

Life Sciences, Agriculture & Food
Chemistry
Medicine & Health
Materials Science
Mathematics & Physics
Electrical & Computer Science
Earth, Energy & Environment
Architecture & Civil Engineering
Education
Economics & Management
Humanities & Social Sciences
Multidisciplinary

Books

Publish Conference Abstract Books
Upcoming Conference Abstract Books
Published Conference Abstract Books
Publish Your Books
Upcoming Books
Published Books

Proceedings

Events

Events
Five Types of Conference Publications

Join

Join as Editorial Board Member
Become a Reviewer

Information

For Authors
For Reviewers
For Editors
For Conference Organizers
For Librarians
Article Processing Charges
Special Issue Guidelines
Editorial Process
Manuscript Transfers
Peer Review at SciencePG
Open Access
Copyright and License
Ethical Guidelines
Submit an Article
Research Article | | Peer-Reviewed

A Study to Assess the Biochemical Composition and Nutritional Potential of Desert Date Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp of Northern Region (Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire)

Mandoué Stéphanie Bamba*,  Dehegnan Penan Patricia Oulai,  Noelle Françoise Kodjo
Published in Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences (Volume 14, Issue 2)
Received: 24 February 2026     Accepted: 6 March 2026     Published: 2 April 2026
Views:       Downloads:
Download PDF
Abstract

Balanites aegyptiaca is a perennial tropical plant belonging to the Balanitaceae family. It is mainly used for its leaves and fruit. The fruit contains edible pulp that is an important food source for humans. Although this fruit is used by local populations for its therapeutic properties, few studies have been conducted on the nutritional potential and phytonutrients composition of the fruit pulp. The aim of this study is to contribute to the promotion of this local plant resource in the diet of populations in northern region of Côte d'Ivoire by the biochemical characterizing and determination of nutritional potential of its pulp. 200g of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit were purchased from three markets in the city of Korhogo. The fruit was carefully sorted to remove damaged fruit, post-harvest plant debris, and other foreign matter. The fruit was then washed and drained. The different parts were separated manually into the outer layer (pericarp), pulp (mesocarp), and inner layer (endocarp). The pulp was extracted using a stainless steel knife and then ground using a blender. The moisture, fat, ash, crude fibers, protein, and carbohydrate (by difference) contents were determined using the AOAC methods. The mineral content was determined by spectrometry. Total phenolics content and total flavonoids were determined using standard spectrophotometric methods. Results of biochemical analysis show that the moisture content of fruit pulp is 36.4% and amounts of fat is 0.2%. Ash content and crude fibers content are 6% and 1.35% respectively and protein content is moderate (4.54%). Total carbohydrates are the components present in large quantities in the pulp (51.51%). The caloric intake gave a value of 226.0 Kcal/100g. The pulp of the Balanites aegyptiaca fruit is rich in minerals such as potassium (505.2 mg/100g), magnesium (3.4 mg/100g), zinc (1.6 mg/100g), sodium (14 mg/100g), and phosphorus (11.5 mg/100g). Calcium and iron are presents in low contents (< 0,14 mg/100g). The Na/K ratio obtained in this work is about 0.03. Results of phytonutrients composition of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp indicate that the pulp is particularly rich in total polyphenols (21.01 mg GAE/g ± 0.27), while moderate amounts of flavonoids (3.14 mg QE/g ± 0.10).

Published in Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences (Volume 14, Issue 2)
DOI 10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15
Page(s) 144-150
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2026. Published by Science Publishing Group
Previous article
Keywords

Desert Date, Balanites aegyptiaca, Fruit Pulp, Phytonutrients Compounds, Nutritional Value, Côte d’Ivoire

1. Introduction
Since ancient time, human beings have depended much on plants for survival either as a source of food or for medicinal purpose
[1]
. Local and traditional plant resources such as Balanites aegyptiaca are attracting growing interest, particularly in semi-arid regions where plants adapted to harsh conditions can offer valuable alternatives
[2]
. Balanites aegyptiaca, known as the desert date palm, is a wild fruit tree found in arid and semi-arid areas in several countries in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly from the coast of Mauritania and Senegal to Somalia, and from southern Egypt to Zambia and Zimbabwe, as well as in the hot regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola
[3]
. It is a perennial tropical plant belonging to the Balanitaceae family and can be cultivated for both its fibers and its oil
[4]
. It is one of the most common but neglected wild plant species in the drylands of Africa and South Asia
[5]
. Balanites aegyptiaca is mainly used by local populations for its therapeutic properties
[6]
. Extracts from Balanites aegyptiaca have shown antidiabetic properties, insecticidal potential, antimicrobial activity against strains of bacterial and fungal pathogens, antiviral and antiparasitic activity, and a hepatoprotective effect
[7]
. The fruit contains edible pulp that is an important food source for humans and livestock
[8]
. Although few studies have been conducted on the nutritional composition of the fruit pulp. This part of the fruit, which is often consumed or processed using traditional methods, could be an interesting source of essential nutrients that could be used in human nutrition. The aim of this study is to contribute to the promotion of this local plant resource in the diet of populations in northern Côte d'Ivoire by determination of biochemical composition and nutritional potential of its pulp.
2. Manuscript Formatting
2.1. Equations
Moisture content (%) = (weight loss/sample weight) × 100(1)
Fat content (%) = (weight of hexane-soluble dry matter/weight of sample) × 100(2)
Ash content (%) = (AW/IW) × 100(3)
AW: weight of ash and IW: initial weight of dry matter.
% nitrogen = (TS– TB × acid normality × 0.014/sample weight) ×100(4)
TS: sample volume (mL)
TB: blank volume (ml)
0.014: Meq of nitrogen
Protein content (%) =% nitrogen × 6.25(5)
Total carbohydrate content (%) = [100-(protein content (%) + fat content (%) + ash content (%) + moisture content (%) + crude fibers content] × 100(6)
EV (kcal/100g) = 4 × P (%) + 9 × L (%) + 4 × TC (%)(7)
2.2. Figures
Figure 1 presents results of phytonutrients composition of aqueous extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp.
Values are expressed as Mean ± standard deviation (n= 3).
Figure 1. Phytonutrients composition of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp.
2.3. Tables
Table 1 presents results of biochemical analysis.
Table 1. Biochemical composition of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp.

Parameters

Content (Mean ± SD)

Proteins (%)

4,55 ± 0,09

Lipids (%)

0,2 ± 0,00

Carbohydrates (%)

51,51 ± 1,57

Moisture (%)

36,4 ± 1,41

Ash (%)

6,00 ± 0,28

Crude Fibers (%)

1,35 ± 0,21

Energy value (Kcal/100g)

226,00 ± 5,93
Values are expressed as mean ± standard deviation (n= 3). SD: Standard Deviation
The mineral profil of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp is displayed in Table 2.
Table 2. Mineral composition (mg/100 g) of desert date (Balanites aegyptiaca) fruit pulp.

Mineral

Content (Mean ± SD) (mg/100g DM)

Calcium (Ca)

< 0,14 ± 0,00

Potassium (K)

505,2 ± 0,00

Magnésium (Mg)

3,4 ± 0,00

Iron (Fe)

< 0,14 ± 0,00

Zinc (Zn)

1,6 ± 0,00

Sodium (Na)

14 ± 0,00

Phosphore (P)

11,5 ±0,00

Sodium/ Potassium (Na/K)

0,03
Values are expressed as mean ± standard deviation of triplicate determinations (n=3). DM: Dry matter. Values indicated as " < "are below the detection limit of the analytical method (ICP-MS).
3. Materials and Methods
3.1. Plant Material
The plant material used in this study consist of the desert date (Balanites aegyptiaca) fruit pulp.
3.2. Methods
3.2.1. Sample Preparation
200g of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit were purchased from three markets in the city of Korhogo. The fruits were carefully sorted to remove damaged fruits, post-harvest plant debris, and other foreign matter. The fruits were then washed with tap water and drained. The different parts were separated manually into the outer layer (pericarp), pulp (mesocarp), and inner layer (endocarp). The pulp was extracted using a stainless steel knife and then crushed using a blender. The sample was then stored in a hermetically sealed jar for further analysis.
3.2.2. Determination of Biochemical Characteristics
The moisture, fat, ash, crude fibers, protein and carbohydrates (by difference) contents of the balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp were determined using
[9]
method.
(i). Moisture Content
The moisture content was determined by the gravimetric method at 105°C until constant weight.
Moisture content (%) = (weight loss/sample weight) × 100(8)
(ii). Fat Content
Lipids were determined using the Soxhlet method, with hexane as the extraction solvent. The percentage of crude fat is expressed as follows:
Fat content (%) = (weight of hexane-soluble dry matter/weight of sample) × 100(9)
(iii). Ash Content
The ash content was determined by incineration in a muffle furnace at 550°C for 3 hours. The ash content was calculated using the following formula:
Ash content (%) = (AW/IW) × 100(10)
Where AW: weight of ash and IW: initial weight of dry matter.
(iv). Protein Content
Total nitrogen was determined by the Micro-Kjeldahl method and converted to crude protein using a conversion factor of 6.25. The percentage of nitrogen and protein was calculated using the following equation.
% nitrogen = (TS– TB × acid normality × 0.014/sample weight) ×100(11)
Protein content (%) =% nitrogen × 6.25(12)
Where TS: sample volume (mL)
TB: blank volume (ml)
0.014: Meq of nitrogen
(v). Crude Fibers
Crude fibers were proportioned according to the method described by
[9]
. Two (2) gram of the sample are weighed in a balloon. 50 mL of sulphuric acid 0.25 N was added to the contents was homogenized and the whole carried with boiling during 30 min under cooling agent with backward flow. Then, 50 mL of sodium 0.31N are added to the contents and the whole carried to boiling during 30 min under cooling agent to backward flow. The extract obtained is filtered on filter paper Whatman and the residue is washed several times at hot water until complete elimination of alkalis. After elimination, the residue is dried with the drying oven with 105°C during 8 H, cooled with the weighed desiccator then. The residue obtained is incinerated with the furnace with 550°C during 3 h. Finally, it is cooled with the desiccator then weighed ashes.
(vi). Total Carbohydrate Content
The total carbohydrate content of the samples was determined by difference, by subtracting protein, fat, ash, crude fibers and moisture.
Total carbohydrate content (%) = [100-(protein content (%) + fat content (%) + ash content (%) + moisture content (%) + crude fibers content] × 100(13)
(vii). Energy Value
The energy value was calculated according to the equation given by
[10]
.
EV (kcal/100g) = 4 × P(%) + 9 × L (%) + 4 × TC (%)(14)
Where: EV (kcal/100g): Energy value
P (%): percentage of protein
L (%): percentage of lipids
TC (%): percentage of total carbohydrates
3.2.3. Determination of Mineral Content
Minerals were identified and quantified according to the method described by
[11]
. Five (5) g of Balanites aegyptiaca pulp was incinerated in a muffle furnace at 500°C for 12 h, then 0.25 g of ash was removed and 10 mL of HCl/HNO3 (50%) was added, after which the mixture was homogenized. The resulting mixture is then filtered through Whatman filter paper and the filtrate volume is made up to 100 mL with distilled water. Microanalysis for qualitative and quantitative determination of minerals is performed by spectrometry (ICP-MS) using mineral standard solutions.
3.2.4. Determination of Polyphenol Content
Phenolic compounds are extracted with methanol using the method of
[12]
. One (1) gram of pulp is homogenized in 10 mL of 70% (v/v) methanol. The resulting mixture is centrifuged at 1000 rpm for 10 min. The pellet is recovered in 10 mL of 70% (v/v) methanol and centrifuged again. The supernatants are collected in a 50 mL flask and made up to the mark with distilled water. The resulting solution is called methanolic extract. One (1) mL of methanolic extract is introduced into a test tube and 1mL of Folin-ciocalteu reagent is added. The tube is left to stand for 3 min, then 1 mL of 20% (w/v) sodium carbonate solution is added. The contents of the tube are made up to 10 mL with distilled water and placed in the dark for 30 min. Optical density is read at 725 nm against a blank. A standard range established from a stock solution of gallic acid (1 mg/mL) under the same conditions as the assay is used to determine the amount of phenols in the sample.
3.2.5. Determination of Flavonoid Content
The method for determining flavonoid content is that of
[13]
. A volume of 0.5 mL of methanolic extract is introduced into a test tube. To the contents of the tube are successively added 0.5 mL distilled water, 0.5 mL aluminum chloride and 0.5 mL sodium nitrite. The tube is left to stand for 30 min in the dark, and the optical density (OD) is read at 415 nm against a blank. The flavonoid content of the samples was determined by means of a calibration line performed under the same conditions as the assay, using a quercetin stock solution at 0.1 mg/mL.
3.3. Statistical Analysis
All analyses were performed in triplicate. Results are expressed as mean ± standard deviation using Statistica 7.1 software.
4. Results
4.1. Biochemical Analysis
Table 1 presents the results of biochemical analysis. Characterization of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp shows that fruit pulp has moisture content of 36,4% and lower amounts of fat (0.2%). Ash and crude fibers contents are 6% and 1.35% respectively. Protein content is moderate (4.54%). Carbohydrates are the components present in large quantities in the pulp (51.51%). The caloric intake gave a value of 226.00 Kcal/100g.
4.2. Mineral Profil of Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp
The mineral profil of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp are displayed in Table 2. Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp is rich in minerals including calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, sodium and phosphorus. Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp has a high potassium content.
4.3. Phytonutrients Composition of Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp
Figure 1 presents the results of phytochemical composition of aqueous extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp. Results indicate that pulp is particularly rich in total polyphenols (21.01 mg GAE/g ± 0.27), while moderate amounts of flavonoids (3.14 mg QE/g ± 0.10).
5. Discussion
The moisture content of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp (36.4%) is high. According to
[14]
, the high moisture content in fruits and vegetables can help enhance food digestion and peristaltic movement on consumption.
The fat is present in an extremely low amount at the rate of 0.2% of dry pulp.
[15]
measured an almost similar content (0.41 g/100 g DM). However, it is known that low levels of lipids are common in fruit pulp and are usually less than 1 g /100 g DM, and would not have a great nutritional importance.
The value obtained for ash content (6%) is simillar to value of 5.21% obtained by
[1]
. Ash content of the sample gives an idea about the minerals content of the food material. This implied that the pulp would be rich in minerals.
Crude fibers content for the pulp is 1.35%. The value is low than the value 3.91% obtained by
[1]
. Crude fibers are known to expand the inside walls of the colon, easing the passage of waste, and this makes it quite effective against constipation
[16]
but in excess may bind trace elements, leading to deficiencies of iron and zinc
[1]
.
The crude protein content of 4.55% was found in the pulp of Balanites aegyptiaca. The protein content was high when compared to 3.97% as reported by
[17]
. The high crude protein content indicates that the pulp could be an important source for protein supplement.
Carbohydrates are the dominant compounds (51.51%). This content is relatively high compared to the of dry pulp reported by
[15]
for Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp from northen ferlo in senegal. The high carbohydrate content of Balanites aegyptiaca pulp means that the pulp is an excellent source of carbohydrates. This result shows that Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp can provide the body with energy.
The caloric intake derived from the pulp content in the term of protein, sugar and fat gave a value of 226.00 kcal /100 g pulp (Table 1). It can therefore be an important energy source especially in poor rural areas, where food is mainly based on cereals.
Calcium content of the pulp is low (<0,14 mg/100g). Calcium is essential to maintaining total body health. Our bodies need calcium every day not just to keep our bones and teeth strong over but to ensure proper functioning of muscles and nerves, and also help our blood to clot
[18]
.
Potassium content of Balanites aegyptiaca fruits pulp is 505,2 mg/100 g. It was reported that, plants foods are usually high in potassium
[19]
. High amount of potassium in the body was reported to increase iron utilization
[20]
.
Magnesium and iron contents of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp (3,4 mg/100g and <0,14 mg/100 g) respectively are low when compared to 73 mg/100g for magnesium and 4.94 mg/100g for iron reported by
[15]
in a study on Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulps from northen ferlo in senegal. According to
[21, 22]
, magnesium is an activator of many enzyme systems and maintains the electrical potential in nerve and iron is an important element in the diet of pregnant women, nursing mothers and infants to prevent aneaemia.
The Zinc content of the pulp (1.6 mg/100g) is low when compared to 28.73 mg/100 reported by
[17]
. According to
[23]
, the zinc content in the pulp indicates that Balanites aegyptiaca fruit could play a major role in normal body development, since zinc is an essential element in protein and nucleic acid synthesis.
The sodium content of Balanites aegyptiaca fruits pulp is 14 mg/100 g. Sodium plays an important role in osmotic regulation of the body fluids and transmission of nerve impulses. Na/K ratio in the body is important because it help in controlling high blood pressure. Na/K ratio of less than one is recommended
[24]
. The Na/K ratio obtained in this work is about 0.03 for pulp, which indicate that the Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp could be useful in the lowering blood pressure.
Phosphorus contents of the pulp is 11.5 mg/100 g. Phosphorus is responsible for cell division, reproduction and the transmission of hereditary traits
[20]
. Phosphorus is related to Calcium for bones, teeth and muscles growth and maintenance
[25]
.
Results of phytonutrients composition of aqueous extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp indicate that the pulp is particularly rich in total polyphenols (21.01 ± 0.27 mg GAE/100g DM), while moderate amounts of flavonoids (3.14 ± 0.10 mg/100 g DM). Total polyphenols and total flavonoids contents found in the present study are lower than those reported by
[26]
which are 264 mg GAE/100g DM for polyphénols and 34.2 mg/100 g DM for flavonoids in fruit pulp of Balanites aegyptiaca from the arid zone of Mauritania, Northwest Africa. Several factors may explain these variations: the impact of soil and climatic conditions, the maturity of analyzed fruits, or changes in analysis methods used. Due to the reasonable concentrations of some of these minerals, and phytochemicals compounds in the desert date pulp, it can easily be said the pulp can serve as an excellent supplement for these minerals and a natural food source of compounds beneficial to the human body.
6. Conclusions
This study highlights the biochemical composition and nutritional potential of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp consumed in northern region (Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire). Fruit pulp is high carbohydrate content and appreciable energy value make it an important source of energy, particulary for rural populations. The pulp also provides moderate protein levels and a favorable mineral profile, notably rich in potassium with a low Na/k ratio, which may support cardiovascular health. In addition, the presence of phytonutrients compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids suggests potential antioxidant benefits. Overall, the findings confirm that Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp represents a valuable, underutilized local food resource. Its promotion and valorization in northern Côte d’Ivoire could contribute to improved food security and better nutritional health among local populations.
Abbreviations

Kcal

Kilocalories

GAE

Gallic Acid Equivalent

QE

Quercetin Equivalent

Meq

Milliequivalents

P

Protein

L

Lipid

TC

Total Carbohydrates

EV

Energy Value

W/V

Weight/ Volume
Author Contributions
Mandoué Stéphanie Bamba: Conceptualization, Funding acquisition, Methodology, Writing – original draft
Dehegnan Penan Patricia Oulai: Conceptualization, Data curation, Investigation, Methodology, Writing – original draft
Noelle Françoise Kodjo: Methodology, Formal analysis, Visualization, Writing – review & editing
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
References
[1] Aremu M 0, Andrew C, Oko O J, Odoh R, Ambo I A., Hikon B N. Nutrient, Antinutrient and Sugar Contents in Desert Date (Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del) Seed and Pulp. International Journal of Sciences. 2021; 10(7): 12-21.

https://doi.org/10.18483/ijSci.2484

[2] Ouedraogo A, Nikiema P A, Nikiema M E M, Yameogo G J, Sourabie P B, Bassave B R H, Nikiema O, Goumbri W B F, Barro N. Phytochemicals properties and antimicrobial activities of Carica papayaand Balanites aegyptiaca’ seeds aqueous infusion and decoction extracts. Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics. 2024; 14(2): 46-52

http://dx.doi.org/10.22270/jddt.v14i2.6393

[3] Akakpo D M A, Pedanou C L E, Donou-Housode M, Assob adjo A E, Agbangla C. Usage et importance socio-économique du dattier du désert Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile au Bénin. Bulletin de la Recherche Agronomique du Bénin [Uses andsocio-economic importance of the desert date palm Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile. in Benin. Bulletin of Agricultural Research in Benin].2023; 33(02): 39-54.

https://doi.org/10.62344/tdkre858

[4] Ajayi A I, and Folorunso A F. Evaluation of the toxicologique status of Balanites aegyptiaca seed oil. Advances in Life Science and Technology. 2013; 10: 33-42.
[5] Wakawa A I, Sambo A B, Yusuf S. Phytochemistry and proximate composition of root, stem bark, leaf fruit of desert date, Balanites aegyptiaca. The Journal of Phytopharmacology. 2018; 7(6): 464-470.
[6] Murthy H N, Yadav G G, Dewir Y H, Ibrahim A. Phytochemicals and Biological Activity of Desert Date (Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile). Plants. 2021; 10: 32.

https://dx.doi.org/10.3390/plants10010032

[7] Abdel-Farid I B and El-Sayed M A-R. Phytochemical Analysis of the Desert Date Balanites aegyptiaca. Egyptian Journal of Botany. 2021; 61(1); 95-103.

https://doi.org/10.21608/ejbo.2020.37920.1533

[8] Okia C A, Agea J G, Kwetegyeka J P, Okiror P, Kimondo J, Teklehaimanot Z and Obua J. Nutritional value of commonly consumed desert date tree products. African Crop Science Journal. 2013; 21, (s3): 657 – 667.
[9] AOAC. Association of official analytical chemists, Offcial methods of analysis, 19th ed., Washington. 2012.
[10] Atwater W O. & Benedict F G. A new respiratory calorimeter and experiments on the conservation of energy in human body II. Physical Review. 1902. 9: 214-251.
[11] CEAEQ. Determination of metals. Argon plasma ionization mass spectrometry method. MA 200 – Met 1.2, Rev 4. Quebec, p. 24. 2013.
[12] Singleton V I, Orthofer R, and Lamuela-Raventos R-M. Analysis of total phenols and other oxydant substrates and antioxydants by means of Folin-ciocalteu reagent. Methods Enzymology. 1999; 299: 152-178.

https://doi.org/10.1016/S0076-6879(99)99017-1

[13] Meda A, Lamien C E, Romito M, Millogo J, and Nacoulma O G. Determination of total phenolic, flavonoid and proline contents in Burkina Faso honeys as well as well as their radical scavenging activity. Food Chemistry. 2005; 91: 571-577.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2004.10.006

[14] Aremu M O, Atolaiye B O, Pennap G R I, & Ashikaa B T. Proximate and amino acid composition of mequite bean (Prosopis africana) protein concentrate. Indian J. Botanical Res. 2007. 3(1): 97–102.
[15] Sagna M B, Diallo A, Sarr P S, Ndiaye O, Goffner D and Guisse A. Biochemical composition and nutritional value of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del fruit pulps from Northern Ferlo in Senegal. African Journal of Biotechnology. 2014; 13(2): 336-342.

https://doi.org/10.5897/AJB2013.12395

[16] Betty Tabiri, Jacob K. Agbenorhevi, Faustina D. Wireko-Manu, Elsa I. Ompouma. Watermelon Seeds as Food: Nutrient Composition, Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Activity. International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences. 2016; 5(2): 139-144.

https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijnfs.20160502.18

[17] Karaye I U, Ladan M. U, Adili I. S, Shehu A, Lawal H M and Sahabi M H. Phytochemistry and Proximate Composition of Fruit Pulp and Seed of Desert Date, Balanites aegyptiaca (Del.). International journal of science for global sustainability. 2020; 6(2): pp 109-117.
[18] Datti Y, Yahya A T, Koki I B, Lado U A, Musbahu L, Shuaibu M M, Ahmad U U, Adamu G A, Umar A and Nura T. Determination of the proximate and mineral contents of desert date kernel (balanites aegyptiaca linn.) and the physical and chemical characteristics of the kernel oil available in kano state, nigeria. FUDMA Journal of Sciences (FJS); 2020. 4(2): pp 250-259.

https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2020-0402-27

[19] Hassan L G, Umar K J, Sa’idu I and Folorunsho F A. Proximate, Mimeral and Anti Nutritional Factors of Daniella oliveri Seeds Kernel. Chemclass Journal, 2008, 5: 31-36.
[20] Adeyeye E L. Determination of Chemical Composition of the Nutritionally valuable parts of male and female Common West African Fresh Water Crab Sudananautes africanus. International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition. 2002, 53: 887-892.

https://doi.org/10.1080/09637480220132805

[21] Onibon V O, Abulude F O, and Lawal L O. Nutritional and Antinutritional Composition of some Nigerian Fruits. Journal of Food Technology. 2007, 5(2): 120-122.
[22] Oluyemi E A, Akilua A A, Adenuya A A and Adebayo M B. Mineral Contents of Some Commonly Consumed Nigerian Foods. Science Focus. 2006, 11: 153- 157.
[23] Abitogun A S, Borokini F B and Ashogbon A O. Nutritional and chemical composition of ripe and unripe Vitexglandifolia. Journal of Research in National Development, 2010, 8(1): 1-8.
[24] Yusuf A A, Mofio B M and Ahmed A B. Proximate and Mineral Composition ofTamarindusindica (Linn.) 1753 Seeds. Science World Journal, 2007, 2(1): 1-4.

https://doi.org/10.4314/swj.v2i1.51699

[25] Umar K J, Hassan L G, Dangoggo S M. and Ladan M. Nutritional Compositions of Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatic Forsk) Leaves. Journal of Applied Sciences, 2007, 7(6): 803-809.
[26] Abdelaziz S M, Lemine F M M, Tfeil, H O, Filali-Maltouf A., & Boukhary A O M S. Phytochimie, activité antioxydante et usages ethnobotaniques des fruits de Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. de la zone aride de Mauritanie, Afrique du Nord-Ouest [Phytochemistry, antioxidant activity and ethnobotanical uses of the fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. from the arid zone of Mauritania Northwest Africa]. Plants, (2020), 9(3): 401.

https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9030401

Cite This Article
Plain Text BibTeX RIS

  • APA Style

    Bamba, M. S., Oulai, D. P. P., Kodjo, N. F. (2026). A Study to Assess the Biochemical Composition and Nutritional Potential of Desert Date Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp of Northern Region (Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire). Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences, 14(2), 144-150. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15

    Copy | Download

    ACS Style

    Bamba, M. S.; Oulai, D. P. P.; Kodjo, N. F. A Study to Assess the Biochemical Composition and Nutritional Potential of Desert Date Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp of Northern Region (Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire). J. Food Nutr. Sci. 2026, 14(2), 144-150. doi: 10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15

    Copy | Download

    AMA Style

    Bamba MS, Oulai DPP, Kodjo NF. A Study to Assess the Biochemical Composition and Nutritional Potential of Desert Date Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp of Northern Region (Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire). J Food Nutr Sci. 2026;14(2):144-150. doi: 10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15

    Copy | Download 

  • @article{10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15,
  author = {Mandoué Stéphanie Bamba and Dehegnan Penan Patricia Oulai and Noelle Françoise Kodjo},
  title = {A Study to Assess the Biochemical Composition and Nutritional Potential of Desert Date Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp of Northern Region (Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire)},
  journal = {Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences},
  volume = {14},
  number = {2},
  pages = {144-150},
  doi = {10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.jfns.20261402.15},
  abstract = {Balanites aegyptiaca is a perennial tropical plant belonging to the Balanitaceae family. It is mainly used for its leaves and fruit. The fruit contains edible pulp that is an important food source for humans. Although this fruit is used by local populations for its therapeutic properties, few studies have been conducted on the nutritional potential and phytonutrients composition of the fruit pulp. The aim of this study is to contribute to the promotion of this local plant resource in the diet of populations in northern region of Côte d'Ivoire by the biochemical characterizing and determination of nutritional potential of its pulp. 200g of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit were purchased from three markets in the city of Korhogo. The fruit was carefully sorted to remove damaged fruit, post-harvest plant debris, and other foreign matter. The fruit was then washed and drained. The different parts were separated manually into the outer layer (pericarp), pulp (mesocarp), and inner layer (endocarp). The pulp was extracted using a stainless steel knife and then ground using a blender. The moisture, fat, ash, crude fibers, protein, and carbohydrate (by difference) contents were determined using the AOAC methods. The mineral content was determined by spectrometry. Total phenolics content and total flavonoids were determined using standard spectrophotometric methods. Results of biochemical analysis show that the moisture content of fruit pulp is 36.4% and amounts of fat is 0.2%. Ash content and crude fibers content are 6% and 1.35% respectively and protein content is moderate (4.54%). Total carbohydrates are the components present in large quantities in the pulp (51.51%). The caloric intake gave a value of 226.0 Kcal/100g. The pulp of the Balanites aegyptiaca fruit is rich in minerals such as potassium (505.2 mg/100g), magnesium (3.4 mg/100g), zinc (1.6 mg/100g), sodium (14 mg/100g), and phosphorus (11.5 mg/100g). Calcium and iron are presents in low contents (Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp indicate that the pulp is particularly rich in total polyphenols (21.01 mg GAE/g ± 0.27), while moderate amounts of flavonoids (3.14 mg QE/g ± 0.10).},
 year = {2026}
}

    Copy | Download 

  • TY  - JOUR
T1  - A Study to Assess the Biochemical Composition and Nutritional Potential of Desert Date Balanites aegyptiaca Fruit Pulp of Northern Region (Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire)
AU  - Mandoué Stéphanie Bamba
AU  - Dehegnan Penan Patricia Oulai
AU  - Noelle Françoise Kodjo
Y1  - 2026/04/02
PY  - 2026
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15
DO  - 10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15
T2  - Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences
JF  - Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences
JO  - Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences
SP  - 144
EP  - 150
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2330-7293
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jfns.20261402.15
AB  - Balanites aegyptiaca is a perennial tropical plant belonging to the Balanitaceae family. It is mainly used for its leaves and fruit. The fruit contains edible pulp that is an important food source for humans. Although this fruit is used by local populations for its therapeutic properties, few studies have been conducted on the nutritional potential and phytonutrients composition of the fruit pulp. The aim of this study is to contribute to the promotion of this local plant resource in the diet of populations in northern region of Côte d'Ivoire by the biochemical characterizing and determination of nutritional potential of its pulp. 200g of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit were purchased from three markets in the city of Korhogo. The fruit was carefully sorted to remove damaged fruit, post-harvest plant debris, and other foreign matter. The fruit was then washed and drained. The different parts were separated manually into the outer layer (pericarp), pulp (mesocarp), and inner layer (endocarp). The pulp was extracted using a stainless steel knife and then ground using a blender. The moisture, fat, ash, crude fibers, protein, and carbohydrate (by difference) contents were determined using the AOAC methods. The mineral content was determined by spectrometry. Total phenolics content and total flavonoids were determined using standard spectrophotometric methods. Results of biochemical analysis show that the moisture content of fruit pulp is 36.4% and amounts of fat is 0.2%. Ash content and crude fibers content are 6% and 1.35% respectively and protein content is moderate (4.54%). Total carbohydrates are the components present in large quantities in the pulp (51.51%). The caloric intake gave a value of 226.0 Kcal/100g. The pulp of the Balanites aegyptiaca fruit is rich in minerals such as potassium (505.2 mg/100g), magnesium (3.4 mg/100g), zinc (1.6 mg/100g), sodium (14 mg/100g), and phosphorus (11.5 mg/100g). Calcium and iron are presents in low contents (Balanites aegyptiaca fruit pulp indicate that the pulp is particularly rich in total polyphenols (21.01 mg GAE/g ± 0.27), while moderate amounts of flavonoids (3.14 mg QE/g ± 0.10).
VL  - 14
IS  - 2
ER  -

    Copy | Download

Author Information
Download PDF
Submit an Article
  • Abstract
  • Keywords

  • Document Sections

    1. 1. Introduction
    2. 2. Manuscript Formatting
    3. 3. Materials and Methods
    4. 4. Results
    5. 5. Discussion
    6. 6. Conclusions
    Show Full Outline
  • Abbreviations
  • Author Contributions
  • Conflicts of Interest
  • References
  • Cite This Article
  • Author Information

About Us

Science Publishing Group (SciencePG) is an Open Access publisher, with more than 300 online, peer-reviewed journals covering a wide range of academic disciplines.

Learn More About SciencePG

Products

Information

Important Link

Copyright © 2012 -- 2026 Science Publishing Group – All rights reserved.