Nutrient composition and chromatic parameter of Bolita pigmented maize (Zea mays L.)

Resumen

Objective: To determine the nutrient composition and chromatic parameters of two pigmented (blue and red) Bolita maize varieties from the communities of the Valles Centrales region, Oaxaca, Mexico.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The grains of two maize varieties were evaluated to determine their moisture, ash, crude fiber, ether extract, protein, and carbohydrates content, as well as their chromatic parameters. In addition, their macro- and micro-elements were established. Data were analyzed with the Student’s-t test for independent samples with a >95% confidence level (p≤0.05).

Results: A significant difference (p≤0.05) was recorded in the nutrient composition of each parameter: 7.46-9.70% (moisture), 1.33-1.61% (ash), 5.43-6.6% (fat), 8.32-9.3% (proteins), 3.25-4.38% (fiber), and 70.83-71.78% (carbohydrates). Macro- (Mg, Ca, K, Na, and P) and micro-elements (Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mn) were identified. In addition, the L*, a*, b*, C*, and h chromatic parameters were determined.

Study Limitations/Implications: This study had no limiting factors.

Findings/Conclusions: The blue and red Bolita maize varieties recorded a nutrient composition that matched the findings of other authors. The differences may be mainly the result of genetic factors and the development conditions of the plants.