In the heart of Nigeria, a humble plant known as abeere (Hunteria umbellata) is gaining attention for its potential to revolutionize the agriculture and food industries. A recent study published in the Turkish Journal of Agricultural Engineering Research has uncovered promising physico-chemical properties of abeere seeds, oil, and oil cake, opening doors to new commercial opportunities.
The research, led by Aderoju Funmilayo OGUNNAIKE from the Federal University of Technology, Nigeria, focused on evaluating the physical and chemical characteristics of abeere seeds, oil, and cake. The findings reveal that abeere seeds possess a high oil yield of 91%, with the extracted oil exhibiting a light brown color. The oil cake, a byproduct of the oil extraction process, is notably brown and rich in protein, making it an excellent candidate for animal feed and potential plant-based protein applications.
One of the most significant findings of the study is the high mineral content in the seed oil. “The sodium, iron, and phosphorus content of the seed oil was found to be higher than that of the seed cake,” OGUNNAIKE explained. This discovery could pave the way for abeere oil to be used in nutritional supplements and fortified foods, addressing micronutrient deficiencies in local communities.
The study also highlighted a significant difference in the carbohydrate and iron content between the seed oil and seed cake. This variation could be leveraged to create tailored products for different markets, enhancing the commercial viability of abeere-based products.
The implications of this research for the agriculture sector are substantial. With the growing demand for sustainable and nutritious food sources, abeere could emerge as a valuable crop for farmers. The high oil yield and protein-rich oil cake offer dual income streams, potentially improving livelihoods and contributing to food security.
Moreover, the study’s findings could stimulate further research into the diverse applications of abeere. As OGUNNAIKE noted, “Further studies are recommended to explore the diverse applications of abeere in the food industry and its impact on food security.” This could lead to innovations in food processing, animal feed formulations, and even pharmaceutical applications.
In the quest for sustainable and nutritious food sources, abeere stands out as a promising candidate. As research continues to unravel its potential, the humble plant from Nigeria could take center stage in the global agriculture and food industries, shaping a more secure and sustainable future.