Abstract

The proximate compositions were estimated using compositional analysis of Association of Official Analytical Chemists, while the mineral element contents were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Analysis of variance shows that there is significant difference (p<0.05) in the proximate compositions of the rice varieties studied (Sipi>Faro14>Awilo>Faro15>Canada). No significant difference (p>0.05) exists in sodium, phosphorous, calcium and magnesium contents of the rice varieties studied. There is significant difference (p<0.05) in nitrogen (Canada > (Awilo, Faro15)>Sipi>Faro14) and potassium (Canada>Sipi>Awilo>Faro15>Faro14). Canada and Faro 14 varieties should get more attentions among other varieties in terms of proximate and mineral compositions. The result of this study can be exploited by rice consumers and also rice farmers in Abakaliki and its environs in their choices regarding mineral and proximate compositions. 

Key words: Rice varieties, proximate composition, mineral elements, Abakaliki.