COMPARATIVE NUTRIENTS ANALYSIS OF WEED-AFFECTED AND WEEDY CHECK VARIETIES OF WHEAT

Grains of different wheat varieties (Saleem 2003, Fakhr-e-Sarhad, Ghaznavi-98, Khattakwal, Dera-91, and Pirsabak) were analyzed for their proximate composition, starch and mineral contents i.e., P, Fe, Na and K to evaluate their nutritional significance in human diet. Weedy check variety was compared to weed affected varieties to determine the effects of weed, Avena fatua on the nutritional composition of wheat. Moisture contents were in the range of 4.95 to 8.4%, the maximum amount noted was for Dera 91. Protein content was high in Pirsabak i.e., 12.89%. The fat content was in the range of 1.00 to 1.60%, while fiber, ash and NFE were present in appreciable amount in all varieties. Among the minerals P was highest and its concentration was from 120- 167 mg.100^-1 g. The maximum amount was found to be in Fakhr-e-Sarhad. Fe-content was in range of 106-119 mg.100^-1g. The maximum amount 119 mg.100^-1 g was observed for Pirsabak. Na and K were high for weed Khattakwal 130 mg.100^-1g and 126 mg.100^-1 gm respectively, and were found to be lowest for weed check variety. Starch contents were found highest in weed check variety i.e. 76.6%. No significant variation on nutrient composition was observed among different varieties of wheat and it can be concluded that weed has no significant effect on the nutritional quality of wheat grains.