Determination of Nutritional and Energy Value of Viburnum mullaha Buch.-Ham. Ex D. Don (Indian Cranberry)

Abstract

Nutritional and energy value of an underutilized wild edible Viburnum mullaha was determined. Vitamin analysis confirmed that the fruit contains high amounts of vitamin C (122.27 mg/100 g), vitamin B2 (0.14 mg/g), and vitamin E (13.47 mg/g). Macronutrient profile revealed that Viburnum mullaha is a rich source of carbohydrates (18.4 g/100 g), proteins (11.3 g/100 g), and lipids (18.4 g/100 g). It was calculated that 100 g of fruit berries can provide an average of 284.4 kcal (1185.7 kJ) energy. Analysis of magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and manganese estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometer confirmed that fruit berries of Viburnum mullaha can be utilized for developing various edible products. This is the first study ever on the biochemical analysis and nutritional value of this species; hence, it will provide nutritional statistics that scientific societies and the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries can use for their expanding investigations of the ultrasonically assisted technique described here in food and medicine.

Keywords:

• Viburnum mullaha
• nutritional value
• energy
• underutilized

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors wish to thank the Director, G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, India, for providing facilities. We are also grateful to the Science and Society division, Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi, for financial support.