Abstract

Allium cepa (onion) bulbs are used as spice in the preparation of virtually all meals in Nigeria, and some researchers had reported its medicinal values. This study was designed to estimate the anti-nutrients and mineral composition of this spice. Standard procedures were used for the analysis of antinutrients. Estimation of the various minerals was done using flame photometer and atomic absorption spectrophotometers. The result showed presence of cyanogenic glycosides, total oxalate, soluble oxalate, phytate and tannin and it was found that, all were in low concentration (8.64+0.05, 70.40+0.01, 44.00±0.02, 34.20±0.01 and 51.32±0.03 mg/100 g, respectively) showcasing the safety in consumption of this spice. Mineral analysis of the spice showed presence of Ca²⁺ > Mg²⁺ > Mn²⁺ > K⁺ > P^_ > Na⁺ > Fe²⁺ in this decreasing order. The determination of Ca²⁺/P^- and Na⁺/K⁺ indices provided evidence that onion bulb is a good source of ingredients for bone, teeth and muscle growth. It can also serve as a good source of diet for hypertensive patients respectively.

Key words:  Allium cepa, anti-nutrients, minerals.