Evaluation Of The Nutrient Composition Of African Walnut (Plukenetia Conophora) And Its Utilization

ABSTRACT

The nutrient composition of Aliana walnut and its utilization were investigated. The raw walnut samples purchased at Ariam market in Abia State were sorted to remove the spoilt ones and other unwanted materials. They were then dc-shelled, washed, sliced, and dried before milling. The walnut samples were identified as dried sample (D) and fairly dry sample (F), with the control egusi (E). The proximate and mineral compositions of the raw samples were determined. The proximate composition showed that, the protein and fat coillent of the walnut samples were high, with (27.26% and 41 7O%) in fairly dry and (26.9 I % and 41.55%) in dried walnut respectively. There was a significant difference at (P<O.05) of the fat and carbohydrate content of the samples. Three soup saniples were prepared, dry walnut soup, fairly dry waliuit soup and egusi soup. Sensory evaluation by (25) trained panelists indicated significant difference in the colour, taste, and flavour of the walnut soup samples which affected the general acceptability of the soup sample.