Project Abstract

Abstract
This research project aimed to determine the concentrations of lycopene, vitamin A, vitamin C, phenol, flavonoid, and antioxidants in four different plant species, namely Musa acuminata (Colla), Capsicum annuum (var. grossum L.), Persea americana (var. guatemalensis L.), and Prunus dulcis (var. sativa L.). These compounds were selected due to their important roles in human health and their presence in various fruits and vegetables that are commonly consumed. The extraction of these compounds was carried out using appropriate solvents and extraction methods specific to each compound to ensure accurate results. Spectrophotometric methods were employed to quantify lycopene, vitamin A, vitamin C, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity in the plant extracts. The results revealed significant variations in the concentrations of these compounds among the four plant species. Musa acuminata (Colla) exhibited high levels of vitamin C and antioxidant activity, indicating its potential health benefits as a good source of these compounds. Capsicum annuum (var. grossum L.) showed the highest concentration of lycopene, a potent antioxidant known for its role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Persea americana (var. guatemalensis L.) displayed notable levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which are associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Prunus dulcis (var. sativa L.) contained substantial amounts of vitamin E, contributing to its antioxidant capacity and potential health-promoting effects. Overall, the findings of this study provide valuable information on the nutritional composition of these plant species and highlight their potential health benefits due to the presence of lycopene, vitamins A and C, phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants. Understanding the variations in the concentrations of these bioactive compounds among different plant species can help in diversifying and enhancing dietary choices to promote overall health and well-being. This research contributes to the existing knowledge on the phytochemical composition of Musa acuminata, Capsicum annuum, Persea americana, and Prunus dulcis, and underscores the importance of incorporating a variety of plant-based foods in the diet to ensure an adequate intake of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds for optimal health.

Project Overview

INTRODUCTION1.1 Background of the StudyFruits are of great nutritional values. They are important sources of vitamins, which carry essential components of human diet.Fruits are important in human diet since they contain carbohydras, proteins, as well as vitamins, minerals and trace elements (Akaneme, 2008). Regular intake of fruits is indispensable for good health, fitness and feeling of well-being. In addition, millions of people throughout the developing countries of the world were reported to have inadequate food supply or nutrient deficiencies in their diets, which led to problems due to starvation and malnutrition of various types (Tlili and Lenucci, 2011). There has been an increase in the awareness on the food value of fruits as a result of exposure to other cultures and acquiring proper food education (Amusa, et al., 2003).Pepper (Capsicum annumm. var. bola), is one of the most varied and widely used food in the world. There are a vast number of varieties of pepper and every variety is indicated with the original language of the local cultures, which differs from town to town and from region to region. For these reasons the classification of pepper is not simple (Basher and Abu-Goukh, 2003). Nigeria is known to be one of the major producers of pepper in the world accounting for about 50% of the African production (Ureigho, 2010). The pepper grown in Nigeria is in high demand because of its pungency and good flavour (Akübugwo and Ugbogu, 2007).Pepper is a fruit is now recognized as rich sources of antioxidants, in which vitamin A, C and Lycopene are some of the most abundant antioxidants identified in them (Arvouet-Grandet al., 2000; Badr-Sherifet al., 2011). Since the protective roles of dietary, antioxidants can’t be over-emphasized against multiple diseases such as cancer, anaemia, diabetes, carbohydrates diseases, etc. these antioxidants perform their functions by contracting the oxidizing activities of highly reactive oxygen species thereby, preventing the oxidative modification of low density protein, nucleic acids, proteins, etc. (Briviba and Sies, 2000). Therefore, there have been recent increases recorded in the demand in the consumption, particularly among the urban community. This is due to the increased awareness on the food value of fruits (e.g apple, pepper, banana, guava, pear and almond), especially as antioxidants (Amusa, et al., 2003).Epidemiological studies indicate a strong inverse correlation between the consumption of fruits and the incidence of degenerative diseases. There is considerable evidence for the role of antioxidant constituents of fruits in the maintenance of health and prevention of diseases.Phenolic compounds have the ability to prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) owing to their antioxidant properties, attributable to the free radical scavenging properties of their constituent’s hydroxyl groups. The inhibition of low-density lipoprotein oxidation has been associated with a lower incidence of coronary diseases. Among the several classes of plant phenolics, some have been reported in pear fruits: phenolic acids, flavonoids and anthocyanin (Burkill, 2003).1.2 Classification of FruitsFruits are classified into three main groups:Simple Fruits: These are fruits containing one or more carpels they take roots from a single ovary with or without accessory parts. E.g. Drupes, Nuts and Legumes.Aggregate Fruits: These are fruits which one flower contains more than a few, divided ovaries, which fuses together as it develops. E.g. Pineapple.Multiple Fruits: These are fruits that consist of matured ovaries of several to many flowers more or less united into a mass. Multiple fruits are almost invariably accessory fruits. E.g. Blackberry, Raspberry and Strawberry.1.3 Aims and Objectives of StudyThe aim and objective of this study was to investigate the content of vitamin C, vitamin A, phenol, flavonoids, lycopene and antioxidant properties of some fruits collected from small market, Abraka.The sampled fruits were Banana (Musa acuminata), Pepper (Capsicum annumm), Pear (Persea americana) and Almond (Prunus dulcis).1.4 Statement of ProblemThe demand on lycopene, vitamin A, vitamin C, Phenol, Flavonoid and Antioxidant have increased significantly, with increased of consumer awareness about cancer.1.5 Significance of the StudyThis research will be useful in creating awareness of vitamin A, Vitamin C, phenol, flavonoids, lycopene and total antioxidant properties in fruits used as food e.g. Banana, Pepper, Pear and Almond that can inhibit the chain reaction caused by free radicals which is responsible for many diseases in human body