COMPOSITION ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF POLLY DWARF, AN EMERGING NICHE VEGETABLE

Composition analysis of polly Dwarf is important for controlling of plant nutrients in food heat processing. The proximate composition and mineral constituents of Alocacia indica (L.) stems were evaluated. The stem contained a ashes: 9.1%, crude protein: 5.44%, crude lipid: 3.25%, crude fiber: 22.9%, and carbohydrates: 59.31%. The stem also have high energy value (288.25kcal/100g) dry weight. Mineral ranges (mg/100g dry weight, DW) were: K (4.63), Na (1.62), Ca (7.37), Fe (5.04), and Zn (3.83). Comparing the tubers mineral contents with recommended dietary allowances (RDA), the results indicated that A. indica stem could be a good supplement for some nutrients such as fibre, potassium, zinc, lipids, and carbohydrates. The wild stem could be used as a carbohydrate supplement for cereal-based diets, while its high potassium content could be utilized for the management of hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions.