EVALUATION OF THE POSSIBLE MUTAGENIC EFFECT OF NATURAL OIL ON THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF MAIZE (ZEA MAY)

Project Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the potential mutagenic effect of natural oil on the chemical composition of maize (Zea mays). Maize is a staple crop worldwide, and any changes in its chemical composition could have significant implications for food safety and nutrition. Natural oils are commonly used in agriculture for various purposes, and their effects on crops need to be thoroughly evaluated. In this research, maize seeds were treated with different concentrations of natural oil, and the chemical composition of the resulting maize plants was analyzed. The mutagenic potential of the natural oil was assessed by examining changes in the levels of key nutrients, such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, in the maize plants. Additionally, any alterations in the presence of anti-nutritional factors or toxic compounds were also investigated. The evaluation of these parameters provided insights into the impact of natural oil on the nutritional quality and safety of maize. The results of the study indicated that the application of natural oil led to significant changes in the chemical composition of maize. There were variations in the levels of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and other nutrients in the treated maize plants compared to the control group. These changes could have implications for the nutritional value of maize and its suitability for human consumption. Furthermore, the presence of anti-nutritional factors or toxic compounds in the treated maize samples raised concerns about the safety of consuming crops treated with natural oil. Overall, this research highlights the importance of evaluating the potential mutagenic effects of natural oil on crop plants. The findings suggest that natural oil treatments can alter the chemical composition of maize, affecting its nutritional quality and safety. Further studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these changes and to develop strategies to mitigate any negative impacts on food crops. This research contributes to the broader understanding of agricultural practices and their implications for food security and public health.

Project Overview

<p> </p><div><p><strong>INTRODUCTION</strong></p><p>Maize belongs to the grass family of plants and its botanical name is Zea mays. It originated in South America and Central America, but its cultivation has today spread to nearly all parts of the world. It is grown through out the tropics and temperature region. (Onwueme, 1979).</p><p>Maize was introduced to West Africa by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It is a cercal crop that is grown widely throughout the world in a range of agro-ecological environments. (Onwueme, 1979).</p><p>About 50 species exists and consist of different colours, textures, shapes and sizes. White, Yellow varnishes are preferred by most people depending on the region. (IITA, 2009).</p><p>Maize was introduced into Africa in the 1500s and has since become one of African’s dominant food crops. Like many other regions, it is consumed as a vegetable although it is a grain crop. The grains are rich in dietary fibber and calories which are good source of energy. (IITA, 2009) and in vitamin A, C and E and essential minerals and contains 9% of protein.</p><p>Maize is the most important staple food for more than 1:2 billion people in SSA and Latin America (IITA, 2009).</p><p>The important of cercal grains to the nutrient of people around the world is widely recognized because they make up such a large part of duets in developing countries, cereal grains cannot be considered source of energy, as they provide significant amounts of protein as well. (FAO Corporate Document Repository). All part of the crop can be used for food and non food products. In industrialized countries, Maize is largest used live-stock feed and as raw materials for industrial products.</p><p>Maize accounts for 30-50% of low income house hold expenditures in Eastern and Southern Africa. A heavy relevance on maize in the diet however can lead to malnutrition and vitamin deficiency disease such as might blindness and Kwashiorkor.</p></div><br> <br><p></p>