Partial physicochemical and nutritional characterization of the fruit of Vitex mollis (Verbenaceae)

The uvalama fruit (Vitex mollis), collected in Sinaloa, Mexico, shows homogenous dimensions and color of both green and ripe fruits. The ripe fruit has a pH of 4.86 and its values of the proximate composition are in the range of other fruits. The edible part of the fruit has a high level of soluble dietary fiber (8 g/100 g d.w.) and it is a high source of chromium (0.61 mg/100 g d.w.). The phytic acid (8.5 g/100 g d.w.) and tannin (0.12 g/100 g d.w.) levels may be considered safe for human consumption. In this study, it was found that the uvalama seed has high contents of insoluble dietary fiber (82.3 g/100 g d.w.) and is a high source of copper (1.1 mg/100 g d.w.), chromium (0.7mg/100 g d.w.) and zinc (3.8 mg/100 g d.w.). However, it shows levels of phytic acid (9.3 g/100 g d.w.) and nickel (9.1 mg/100 g d.w.) that could limit its use. Some of the nutrients in the edible part of the uvalama fruit could be a beneficial addition to the Mexican diet.