Chemical and Nutritional Properties of Some Maize (Zea mays L.) Varieties Grown in NWFP, Pakistan

Abstract

Grains of ten maize varieties grown in NWFP, Pakistan were obtained and investigated for physicochemical characteristics, proximate composition, energy content and mineral composition. Mean electrical conductivity and thousand seed mass were determined in the range of 9.26-33.83 μS and 319-230.4 g, respectively. Proximate composition shows moisture content in the range of 9.201-10.908%, ash (0.7-1.3%), fats (3.21-7.71%), protein (7.71-14.60%), crude fiber (0.80-2.32%) and carbohydrates (69.659-74.549%). The data indicate that seeds of these varieties vary greatly in term of protein, fats and crude fiber contents. Pahari, Jalal 2003, WD- 2*8 and Azam varieties were determined to contain high protein content (>10% protein) while WD-2*8, Pop. 2004B, PSEV 3-2 and Sarhad (W) contain high fats content of >6%. The energy value of the grains of these varieties was determined in the range of 307.047-394.066 kcal/100 g which shows that the grains of these varieties are rich source of energy. In minerals the level of sodium is 540.30-620.41ppm, K (2915-3471 ppm), Ca (410-590 ppm), Fe (38.02-56.14 ppm), Zn (37.05-52.4 ppm), Mg (985.2-1125.3 ppm) and Cu (11.02-14.25 ppm).