Comparative Study of the Nutritional Composition of Three Leafy Vegetables from the Flora of Côte d'Ivoire: The Case of Euphorbia moringa and Manihot esculenta

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Leafy vegetables are perennial species that play an important role in the diet. However, very little research has been devoted to them in Côte d'Ivoire. The aim of the present study was to determine the nutritional composition of three leafy vegetables (Euphorbia hirta, Moringa oleifera and Manihot esculenta), in order to increase their nutritional value against malnutrition. Methodology: The nutritional composition of these leafy vegetables was analyzed in accordance with standard methods. Results: The results recorded for three species (Euphorbia hirta, Moringa oleifera and Manihot esculenta) were as follows: Moisture content (59.06±0.08%, 70.5±1%, 66.26±3.26%), proteins (14.41±0.02%, 26.12±0.18%, 29.09±0.11%), carbohydrates (35.43±5.30%, 14.37±1.3%, 14.89±0.01%), lipids (3.8±0.13%, 6.8±0.13%, 5.93±0.31%), dietary fibers (37.16±1.55%, 43.2±0.51%, 43.83±1.53%), ash (9.2±0.13%, 9.5±0.67%, 6.20±0.11%), polyphénols (368.66±50.75 mg EAG/ g MS, 375.5±4.78, 381±4.24 mg EAG/g MS), flavonoïdes (290.66±48.36 mg EQ/g MS, 283.78±3.9 EQ/g MS, 283±1.41 mg EQ/g MS) and energy value (193.44±1.68 kcal/100g, 283 78±3.9 kcal/100 g, 171.96±4.29 kcal/100 g, 173.75±0.01 kcal/100 g). Conclusion: Leafy vegetables have a generally high nutritional composition. Their consumption could sustainably improve the nutritional status of vulnerable groups in Côte d'Ivoire and thus malnutrition could be effectively combated. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to assess the nutritional contribution of the leafy vegetables studied in combination with other foods.