Evaluation of Nutrient and Phytochemical Composition of Selected Fruits and Health Implications to People in Kampala Capital City Authority, Uganda
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Abstract
Regular consumption of fruits plays a vital role in promoting human health. However, limited information on the nutritional and phytochemical composition of locally available fruits in Uganda constrains their optimal dietary use. This study evaluated the nutrient and phytochemical profiles of jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), soursop (Annona muricata), gooseberry (Physalis peruviana), and tamarind (Tamarindus indica). Using a laboratory-based cross-sectional design, qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted to determine mineral content, vitamins, proximate composition, and key phytochemicals. All fruits contained calcium (0.53–0.97 mg/kg), phosphorus (0.01–0.22 mg/kg), magnesium (10.3–13.82 mg/kg), potassium (21.18–40.77 mg/kg), zinc (0.02–0.06 mg/kg), and sodium (25.17–33.08 mg/kg). Tamarind showed the highest crude protein (9.72 %), gooseberry had the highest crude fibre (17.41 %) and sugars (18.67 %, farther more soursop had the highest starch content (39.38 %) and also recorded the highest moisture (80.38 %) and total ash content (4.587 %). While jackfruit had the lowest fibre (3.92%), fat (1.46) and protein (7.29%). Phenolics, alkaloids, tannins, and anthraquinones were detected in most samples, with flavonoids absent in gooseberry. Although variations were observed, no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) occurred among fruits. The findings indicate that these fruits are nutritionally valuable and can contribute meaningfully to a balanced diet and boost immunity among people in Uganda.
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