Author(s) :

Esther Kisopa Kitengye, Marie Claire Dembo Yandju, Adrien Mbuyi Kalonji, Emmanuel Okenda Djamba, Didier Lusimbamo Dianzuangani, Fiston-Pelerin Dongolongo Disashi, Nadège Luzinga Zakuani.

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Abstract :

This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional value of fresh and dried leaves of six wild leafy vegetables from the city of Kinshasa, namely Talinum triangulare, Costus phyllocephalus, Gnetum africanum, Psophocarpus scandens, Mondia whitei, and Solanum macrocarpon. The objective was to determine their macronutrient, mineral, and vitamin composition, as well as to assess the effect of shade drying on their nutritional properties. The results showed that fresh samples had high moisture content, whereas dried samples exhibited a significant increase (p < 0.05) in protein, lipid, carbohydrate, fiber, ash, and energy contents. This variation is attributed to a concentration effect resulting from the reduction in moisture content. The analyses also revealed significant levels of minerals, particularly calcium, magnesium, and iron, with higher values observed in dried samples. Furthermore, qualitative identification confirmed the presence of vitamins A, B1, and C in all studied species, both in fresh and dried forms. These results indicate that wild leafy vegetables constitute an important source of essential nutrients and may contribute to dietary diversification and the prevention of nutritional deficiencies. Shade drying appears to be an effective preservation method that improves the nutritional density of foods. However, further studies involving quantitative vitamin analysis and nutrient bioavailability are needed to better assess their nutritional potential.

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