Chemical composition and antioxidant activity of honey dew seed and cantaloupe seed: A comparative study:- Okpara, Chijioke

ABSTRACT

The study aimed to evaluate and compare the chemical composition and antioxidant properties of tire seeds ofthe varieties of melon (Honeydew and cantaloupe). Proximate, vitamins and mineral compositions ofthe samples were determined. The antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH (Diphenyl Picryl Hydrazine) and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) scavenging activity test, lhe proximate composition ofthe seeds was significantly different (P<0.05) with cantaloupe showing higher values for proteins (29.51%), ash (5.93%), fat (32.68%), dry matter (92.84%) and energy (483.16kcal). Honeydew seeds gave significantly higher (P<0.05) carbohydrates (27.38%) and moisture values (9.44%) compared to cantaloupe. The results for vitamins showed significantly higher levels of vitamin A (79.68mg/100g) and vitamin C (39.61mg/100g) in honeydew and cantaloupe seeds respectively. The mineral composition of both seeds was significantly different (P<0.05) and honeydew gave higher values for Mg (magnesium) and Fe (iron) compared to cantaloupe seed. The results ofantioxidant activity showed values ranging from 67.98 to 83.43 IC.somg/ml and 23.14 to 39.65 mg/GAE/ml for honeydew and cantaloupe respectively with DPPH for honeydew (83.43 ICsomg/ml) significantly higher than that of cantaloupe (67.98 ICsomg/ml). FRAP for honeydew (39.65mg/GAE/ml) also retained higher mean score than cantaloupe (23.14mg/GAE/ml). Overall, honeydew had a better antioxidant potential compared to cantaloupe seed