Comparative Study of the Nutritive and Bioactive Compounds of Three Cucurbit Species Grown in Two Regions of Côte d’Ivoire

Aims: The objective of this work was to contribute to the valorization of 3 local cucurbit oilseeds species grown in 2 producing regions of Côte d’Ivoire, namely the Kabadougou and the Moronou. Thus, a comparative study on the main nutritive and bioactive compounds of these cucurbits was conducted.

Methodology: Mature dried seeds of Citrullus lanatus sp, Lagenaria siceraria Molina Standl, and Cucumeropsis mannii Naudin, locally named respectively Wlewle, Bebou and Nviele, were collected in the 2 regions, dehulled and processed for analyses. Standard procedures of AOAC, AFNOR and FAO were used for the determination of the nutritive and bioactive compounds.

Results: Wlewle species exhibited the highest content of lipids (51.07±1.32%), energy caloric value (584.05±4.13 kcal/), polyphenols (141±23.97) and flavonoids (0.19±0.02) content. Nviele species had the highest protein (38.90±0.93%) and reducing sugar (70.62±1.03 mg/100 g) content. Bebou species exhibited the highest ash content (3.91±0.38%) and total soluble sugars (3.42±0.19%). Flavonoids content was similar for each species regardless of the region. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed (p< 0.01) that energy caloric and lipid were directly correlated but conversely with protein. Direct correlation was also observed between polyphenols and lipid content in Wlewle and Nviele varieties, while in the Bebou, this trend was observed with protein. Despite their small shape, Wlewle species provide higher caloric energy upon consumption.