Phytochemical Composition, Anti-Nutritional Factors, Oil Quality Parameters, in Vitro Antioxidant Capacity and Mineral Composition of Cottonseed (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Aguebor-Ogie, N.B. And Oigboche, E.B.
DOI Info: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21048175
ABSTRACT
Cottonseed (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is an abundant agricultural by-product with nutritional and industrial potential, yet its safe utilisation in human diets is constrained by toxic compounds and limited biochemical data on locally sourced samples. This study determined the phytochemical constituents, anti-nutritional factors, oil quality parameters, in vitro antioxidant capacity, and mineral composition of cottonseed obtained from the Nigerian market. Phytochemicals were quantified using Folin-Ciocalteu, aluminium chloride colorimetric, and gravimetric procedures. Anti-nutritional factors were estimated titrimetrically. Oil quality was assessed through acid value, percentage free fatty acids (%FFA), and peroxide value. Antioxidant capacity was measured by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays in both seed extract and extracted oil, with ascorbic acid as the reference standard. Mineral analysis was performed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Total phenolic content was the most abundant phytochemical (82.35 ± 0.40 g TAE/kg), followed by tannins (21.22 ± 1.78 g TAE/kg), saponins (9.45 ± 0.09 g/kg), flavonoids (9.16 ± 1.23 g QE/kg), and alkaloids (6.67 ± 0.34%). Phytate (2.12 ± 0.02%) was the dominant anti-nutrient. The acid value, %FFA, and peroxide value substantially exceeded Codex Alimentarius limits, indicating advanced rancidity. Calcium (178.8 mg/kg) and potassium (117.7 mg/kg) were the most abundant minerals; lead and cadmium were undetected. These findings indicate that Nigerian-market cottonseed contains biologically active phytochemicals and nutritionally relevant minerals, though phytate-reducing processing and full industrial oil refining are necessary before safe dietary use.
Affiliations: Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
Keywords: Gossypium Hirsutum, Cottonseed Oil, Phytochemicals, Anti-nutritional Factors, Antioxidant Activity,Mineral Composition, Oil Quality
Published date: 2026/06/30
