Food Value of Baobab (Adansonia Digitata L) Leaves

Abstract

Baobab (Adansona digitata L), a big tree that grows principally in Africa was investigated for its nutritional composition. Stratified random sampling techniques were employed to identify the baobab trees from which samples were collected. Bauchi state was stratified according to its three ecological zones: Northern Guinea Savanna, Sudan Savanna and Sahel Savanna.  Within each of these ecological zones, a Local Government Area (LGA) was randomly chosen to form the sampling unit. The three LGAs selected were Dass from Northern Guinea Savanna, Kirfi from Sudan Savanna and Katagum from Sahel Savanna ecozone. From these three LGAs, three Baobab trees each were identified and fifteen fresh leaves randomly collected with secateurs from each of the nine identified Baobab trees.  Sample collection bags were used to convey the samples from collection areas to the laboratory (Forestry Technology Laboratory, Federal polytechnic, Bauchi) where the samples were dried under shade for two weeks. The dried leaves were grounded using pestle and mortar, mixed thoroughly to obtain a composite sample and pass through 2mm sieve. The analysis was conducted at Biochemistry Laboratory of Federal College of Animal Health and Production Vom, Plateau State - Nigeria using the instructions of Association of Analytical Chemists (2000). The results of the analysis reveals that at the time of the analysis, the Moisture Content was found to be 2.24%, Ash 8.30%, Crude protein 6.15%, Carbohydrate 9.25%, Crude Fat 3.36%, and Crude Fiber 2.42% respectively. The observed nutrient levels and types may add value to the dietary needs of both human and animals.  Considering its popularity among inhabitants of sub-Saharan Africa as a soup thickener, source of fibre and above all, its ecological attributes, its regeneration is highly encouraged and being the most populous tree in terms of usage among households in the Sahelian region, processing and packaging of the leaves will go a long way in promoting food security and add value to the product.