I am Philippa C. Ojimelukwe. I studied Biochemistry and Food Science and Technology (for MSc and Phd). I work presently as a Lecturer/Researcher and as Director of University Research Administration at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture; a Federal University located at Umudike, Abia State, South East Nigeria. I am interested in maximizing the health benefits of food. I conduct research in food chemistry, food biotechnology, food processing and preservation and food toxicology. Links to my profile include:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Philippa_Ojimelukwe/contributions; orcid:0000-0002-0263-0597; https://www.growkudos.com/profiles/193742 Address: Department of Food Science and technology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, PMB 7267 Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
Journal of traditional Medicine & its Applications, 2024
The Pentaclethra macrophylla tree is a presently underutilized medicinal plant despite its potent... more The Pentaclethra macrophylla tree is a presently underutilized medicinal plant despite its potentials. It has a wide range of medicinal uses (dyslipidaemia, antisicking, antimicrobial, wound healing, antihelminthic, analgesic, anti-diabetic, antidiarrhea, antinoniceptive, fertility promoting properties etc) in different ethnobotanical settings. There is scientific evidence for the antisickling, antiulcerogenic, anti-inflammatory, antinoniceptive, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-hyperlipidaemic properties. These potential medical claims are not yet sufficiently studied and clinical studies have not been conducted on them. A major bioactive compound found in the leaf is extract is phenanthranone while a significant amount of 6-octadecanoic acid is found in the stem bark. P macrophylla is also rich in oil (44-47% oil) made up of 75% saturated fatty acids and 25% unsaturated fatty acids (mainly linoleic and linolenic acids). The crude protein content is high (36.2-43.89%), and the essential amino acid profile is good except for sulphur containing amino acids. The seed oil contains a lot of sisoterol. Paucine and caffeoyl putrescience (harmful substances) found in the seeds are detoxified by the fermentation process. Several bioactive compounds in P. marophylla such as bergenin and citronellol possess medicinal value (anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and wound healing properties etc.). A lot of research input is still required to elucidate the health benefits and medicinal value of P. macrophylla. While the bioactive compounds in the stem bark and seeds have been, elucidated bioactive compounds in the roots have not been studied. Most of the medicinal uses of this plant are based on ethnobotanical practices and require studies with animal models as well as clinical studies for their authentication.
Journal of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Animal Sciences, 2024
This study is aimed to provide a detailed overview on the traditional and semimechanized, method ... more This study is aimed to provide a detailed overview on the traditional and semimechanized, method of extraction of red palm oil from SouthEastern Nigeria and its applications in food. The study was undertaken in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State and Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State both in SouthEastern part of Nigeria. One village each from these Local Government Areas was selected and four processors each from the villages in the study area were selected, interviewed and observed for processing practices. The processing stages involved harvesting, bunch reception of harvested fruits, fruit removal, bunch sterilization, digestion of the sterilized fruit, extraction of palm oil, clarification of oil and oil storage. These processes help to retain βcarotene and vitamin E in red palm oil. The unique solid content profile of palm oil, its perfect oxidative stability, high nutritional value and competitive price makes palm oil as one of the most utilized oils by food manufacturers and consumers in the region. The oil yield from the traditional processing method ranged from 15.50-15.70%, while that of semi mechanized processing method ranged from 20.40-20.70%. This study has revealed that semi mechanized method of palm oil processing had a higher oil yield when compared to the traditional method.
The effective management of type 2 diabetes depends on the ability to improve insulin utilization... more The effective management of type 2 diabetes depends on the ability to improve insulin utilization, regulate blood glucose, and control hyperlipidaemia. Performance of Corchorus olitorius leaves in these three areas was evaluated using alloxan induced diabetic Wistar rats. Nutrient composition of C. olitorius leaves was determined using standard AOAC methods; alpha-amylase inhibitor content of the leaves was determined after extraction with four solvent systems. Some bioactive compounds in C. olitorius were identified with GC-MS. Diets were formulated to contain 0-20% C. olitorius and fed to alloxan-induced diabetic rats for 70 days. Indices of nutritional quality, biochemical indices and histopathology of the pancreas were compared in the experimental animals. Water and 99% ethanol were the best solvents for extracting alpha amylase inhibitor from C. olitorius leaves. 9-octadecanoic acid (Z), benzoic acid,2 phenyl ester, 9-octadeceneZmethylester and hexadecenoic acids were major bioactive compounds identified in C. olitorius leaves by GC-MS. Formulated diets containing C. olitorius decreased feed intake, body mass gain, glycosylated haemoglobin (HBA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs) in a concentration dependent manner. HDL-C (good cholesterol) increased. C. olitorius caused the regeneration of the pancreas of the alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Corchorus olitorius leaves is effective for the control of hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia.
Abstract: BACKGROUND/ OBJECTIVES. The effective management of type 2 diabetes depends on the abil... more Abstract: BACKGROUND/ OBJECTIVES. The effective management of type 2 diabetes depends on the ability to maintain or improve insulin utilization, regulation of blood glucose, and the control of hyperlipidaemia. The effectiveness of Corchorus olitorius leaves in these three domains were evaluated in the present research. The objective of this research was to evaluate the ameliorative effects of Corchorus olitorius leaves on alloxan induced diabetes in Wistar rats METHODS. Nutrient composition of shade dried C. olitorius leaves was determined using standard AOAC methods.; alpha-amylase inhibition potentials of C. olitorius leaves were determined using four solvent systems. Bioactive compounds in C. olitorius were determined using GC-MS. Diets were formulated to contain 0-20% C. olitorius and fed to alloxan-induced diabetic rats alongside positive and negative standards for 70 days. Indices of nutritional quality and biochemical indices were compared in diabetic, diabetic/nutritionally managed and normoglycaemic Wistar rats. Histopathology of the pancreas of the three groups of animals were also compared. RESULTS. Water and 99% ethanol were the best solvents for extracting alpha amylase inhibitor from C. olitorius leaves. 9-octadecanoic acid (Z), benzoic acid,2 phenyl ester, 9-octadeceneZ-methylester and hexadecenoic acids were bioactive compounds identified in C. olitorius leaves. Formulated diets containing C. olitorius decreased feed intake, body mass gain, HBA1c, fasting blood glucose (FBG), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs) in a concentration dependent manner. HDL-C (good cholesterol) increased. C. olitorius caused the regeneration of the islets of Langerhans of the alloxan -induced diabetic rats. 2 CONCLUSION. Corchorus olitorius leaves is effective for the control of hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia. Its water and ethanol extracts contain significant quantities of alpha amylase inhibitor that slows down carbohydrate breakdown into sugars thereby controlling the blood glucose level.
An indigenous fermented beverage; Pito, produced from sorghum using Lactobacillus sake as starter... more An indigenous fermented beverage; Pito, produced from sorghum using Lactobacillus sake as starter culture was investigated, characterised and its microbial quality established. Lactic acid bacteria a probiotic organism was isolated from the pito .The microbial and biochemical tests carried showed that the microbial isolate do not posses antimicrobial activity against staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and klebsiella. The introduction of the isolated lactic acid bacteria into the pito beverage and allowed incubation period of 0-144h showed significant variations in the quality characteristics of this indigenous dink. The optimum incubation period required to achieve high quality pito drink was established at 48hr at 28 o C where even the microbial load of the fermented drink was within accepted limit.
The proximate, dietary fibre, mineral and antinutrient compositions of Gongronema latifolium (lea... more The proximate, dietary fibre, mineral and antinutrient compositions of Gongronema latifolium (leaves), Gymnema sylvestre (leaves), Corchorus olitorius (leaves) and Bulchozia coriceae (seeds) were evaluated. Diabetes was induced in selected albino rats while the control groups were normal. Both groups were fed diets containing different levels of each plant product (0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0% respectively) for twenty-eight days. Effects of plant products on blood glucose, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium levels of experimental animals were evaluated. The crude protein, fat, dietary fibre and carbohydrate composition of the four plant products were significantly (p<0.05) different. Insoluble and soluble dietary fibre were significantly (p<0.05) higher in G. sylvestre and G. latifolium respectively. Sodium and potassium levels were highest in C. olitorius. Saponin content was highest in G. latifolium. There was a dose-dependent decrease in blood glucose and sodium concentration in all the diets groups. C. olitorius fed-diet reduced mean body weights of experimental animals throughout the four weeks of study.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ambient temperature storage (29±2°C) and ... more The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ambient temperature storage (29±2°C) and domestic processing on the carotenoids, chlorophylls, vitamins and minerals in Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves. Total β-carotene was determined spectrophotometrically while HPLC was used for detailed analysis of carotenoids. The results indicated that P. mildbraedii was rich in lutein (261.96µg/gdwt) and Total-βcarotene (83.53µg/gdwt). Cooking and storage significantly (P>0.05) increased the contents of total β-carotene. β-carotene isomerized more, due to thermal processing than storage. Initial concentrations of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and chlorophyll a/b ratio were 1.86 mg/gfwt, 0.72mg/gfwt and 2.44 mg/gfwt respectively. Preliminary nutritional data including the mineral elements (K, Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe) and vitamins contents (ascorbic and, riboflavin, thiamin, Niacin and phyllquinone) are presented. Cooking significantly decreased (P < 0.05) the contents of chlorophylls, water soluble vitamins and minerals. However, storage conditions in our study resulted in a nonstatistical decrease in the contents of vitamins and minerals when compared with raw samples. The levels of β-carotene (Vitamin A), riboflavin, ascorbic acid and phylloquinone in cooked leave sample, are adequate to meet their corresponding RDAs in Children and adults respectively.
Yams (Discorea spp) are food security crops which serve as invaluable food sources of energy, mic... more Yams (Discorea spp) are food security crops which serve as invaluable food sources of energy, micronutrients and phytochemicals with numerous health benefits. They show a lot of genetic and compositional diversity. New biologically active compounds are being identified from wild yams. This review focuses on the nutrients, and phytochemicals found in yam species and their health benefits. The B group of vitamins, vitamin C, pro-vitamin A; copper; manganese; isoflavones; steroidal saponins; alkaloids; terpenes; and anthocyanidins are found in different species of yams. Wild yams such as Discorea villosa and Discorea hispida are used in ethnomedicine because of their phytochemical content. Diosgenin, dioscorin, dioscin dihydrodiscorine protodioscin, methyprotodioscin, prosapogenin, epifzelechin, glucopyranoside, phytoestrogen and allantoin are bioactive phytochemicals that may be found in yams. They are valuable as anti-cancer, anti-mutagenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-ageing lipid lowering and hepatoprotective agents. Other claims based on traditional uses of yams have not been scientifically substantiated. Dioscorea species are likely to contain other unidentified secondary metabolites. Discorea species with other health promoting bioactive compounds should be identified; modern techniques should be used to extract yet unidentified compounds in Discorea and the food use and health benefits of yam species should be optimized.
The sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L Lam) is a famine crop with great potentials to supply bioenerg... more The sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L Lam) is a famine crop with great potentials to supply bioenergy and curb hidden hunger in developing countries. It is a unique root crop containing four nutrients that exceed 10% of the recommended daily amount (RDA) (vitamin A/beta carotene; vitamin C; fiber and potassium). Commendable research efforts have been made to
The nexus between sustainable food security, nutrition, food safety, processing and preservation ... more The nexus between sustainable food security, nutrition, food safety, processing and preservation is largely unexplored. While limited progress is being made in the production sector globally, underutilized foods abound under different nomenclatures (orphan crops, forgotten foods, abandoned, underdeveloped, minor, neglected, or lost crops). Food systems influence dietary outcomes and have social, economic, and environmental impacts. Several indigenous foods are no longer part of contemporary diets, representing an erosion of biocultural heritage. Appropriate methods of cultivation, processing, preservation, and preparation are required for a nutritious safe, and healthy diet. Foods that require research attention abound in different parts of the world.
Changes Induced by Modification on the Rheological Properties of Icacina trichantha Starch, 2017
Abstract This research aimed at investigating the potentials of a non-food source of starch for u... more Abstract This research aimed at investigating the potentials of a non-food source of starch for use in food and industrial application. It will reduce competition for sources of food which are also used as sources of starch for the industry. In this work starch from Icacina trichantha tubers (under-utilized crop) were isolated and the purity level determined. The native starch was chemically modified using acid (HCl), alkaline (NaOH) and oxidized using H2O2. Functional properties, pasting properties were determined and photomicrographs of the starch samples were obtained. Bulk density of native and modified starches ranged from 0.56 to 0.78; pH 3.50 to 8.86; Gelatinization temperature 60 to 80°C; water holding capacity 64.0 to 72.0; swelling power 6.71 to 10.71; wettability 07.47 to 18.94 and solubility 14 to 37. The peak viscosity ranged from 143.0 to 2965.0 RVU. The native starch had the highest peak viscosity (at a temperature of 84.10°C in 4.53 min) and acid treated had the lowest (at 85.70°C in 4.33 min). The breakdown viscosity ranged from 120.0 to 1291.0 RVU with the alkaline treated starch having the highest while acid treated starch had the lowest. The final viscosity ranged from 81.0 to 2066.0 RVU. Alkaline treated starch had the highest value while acid treated starch had the lowest value. The setback viscosity ranged between 58.0 and 737.0 RVU with the alkaline treated starch having the highest value and acid treated starch having the lowest value. The pasting temperature ranged from 84.10 to 85.90°C. The photomicrographs showed that the starch granules in all the samples had irregular shape, generally small to medium sized with sizes ranging from 30 to 110nm and granular frequency ranging from 45 to 183. Icacina trichantha starch resembled conventional food starches, and will compete favourably with them in food systems as an industrial starch
Comparative Evaluation of Domestic Processing and Storage Losses of Micronutrients and the Health Benefits of Five Underutilized Green Leafy Vegetables (Glvs), 2023
Talinum triangulare, Amaranthus hybridus, Gnetum africanum, Pterocarpus mildbraedii and Telfairia... more Talinum triangulare, Amaranthus hybridus, Gnetum africanum, Pterocarpus mildbraedii and Telfairia occidentalis are underutilized Green Leafy Vegetables (GLVs). Storage and cooking losses undermine their nutritional and health benefits. T. triangulare has strong anti-oxidant properties; A. hybridus is good for managing blood pressure; T. occidentalis possess hypolipidaemic and anti-hyperglycaemic effects; G. africanum possess anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties; P. mildbraedii is an anti-microbial agent and is useful for the management of respiratory disorders. This review presents a comparative evaluation of the effects of moist heat treatment (boiling for 5 min at 98°C) and storage (at 29 ± 2°C), on the nutrients found in these vegetables which have health benefits for humans. Moist heat treatment reduces the vitamin content of the GLVs while the mineral content is more stable to cooking and storage conditions. Cooking reduces minerals in T. occidentalis (for zinc, iron, magnesium, and calcium) and iron for. Cooking losses were high for niacin in P. mildbraedii; loss of riboflavin was highest in A. hybridus while the loss of vitamin C was highest in T. triangulare. Nutrient loses through other improved processing methods such as sautéing, microwave heating, freezing, irradiation should be established. Processing methods that will reduce the loss of water-soluble vitamins and iron should be investigated. Additional health benefits of each vegetable should be scientifically established.
The inaugural lecture which is entitled “CLOSE TO NATURE’ is a discourse on my research inspirati... more The inaugural lecture which is entitled “CLOSE TO NATURE’ is a discourse on my research inspiration as an academic and the humble efforts my colleagues and I have made to develop the frontiers of knowledge in the area of Food Science and Technology. We are in the business of promoting Food security in the Africa region
Journal of traditional Medicine & its Applications, 2024
The Pentaclethra macrophylla tree is a presently underutilized medicinal plant despite its potent... more The Pentaclethra macrophylla tree is a presently underutilized medicinal plant despite its potentials. It has a wide range of medicinal uses (dyslipidaemia, antisicking, antimicrobial, wound healing, antihelminthic, analgesic, anti-diabetic, antidiarrhea, antinoniceptive, fertility promoting properties etc) in different ethnobotanical settings. There is scientific evidence for the antisickling, antiulcerogenic, anti-inflammatory, antinoniceptive, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-hyperlipidaemic properties. These potential medical claims are not yet sufficiently studied and clinical studies have not been conducted on them. A major bioactive compound found in the leaf is extract is phenanthranone while a significant amount of 6-octadecanoic acid is found in the stem bark. P macrophylla is also rich in oil (44-47% oil) made up of 75% saturated fatty acids and 25% unsaturated fatty acids (mainly linoleic and linolenic acids). The crude protein content is high (36.2-43.89%), and the essential amino acid profile is good except for sulphur containing amino acids. The seed oil contains a lot of sisoterol. Paucine and caffeoyl putrescience (harmful substances) found in the seeds are detoxified by the fermentation process. Several bioactive compounds in P. marophylla such as bergenin and citronellol possess medicinal value (anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and wound healing properties etc.). A lot of research input is still required to elucidate the health benefits and medicinal value of P. macrophylla. While the bioactive compounds in the stem bark and seeds have been, elucidated bioactive compounds in the roots have not been studied. Most of the medicinal uses of this plant are based on ethnobotanical practices and require studies with animal models as well as clinical studies for their authentication.
Journal of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Animal Sciences, 2024
This study is aimed to provide a detailed overview on the traditional and semimechanized, method ... more This study is aimed to provide a detailed overview on the traditional and semimechanized, method of extraction of red palm oil from SouthEastern Nigeria and its applications in food. The study was undertaken in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State and Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State both in SouthEastern part of Nigeria. One village each from these Local Government Areas was selected and four processors each from the villages in the study area were selected, interviewed and observed for processing practices. The processing stages involved harvesting, bunch reception of harvested fruits, fruit removal, bunch sterilization, digestion of the sterilized fruit, extraction of palm oil, clarification of oil and oil storage. These processes help to retain βcarotene and vitamin E in red palm oil. The unique solid content profile of palm oil, its perfect oxidative stability, high nutritional value and competitive price makes palm oil as one of the most utilized oils by food manufacturers and consumers in the region. The oil yield from the traditional processing method ranged from 15.50-15.70%, while that of semi mechanized processing method ranged from 20.40-20.70%. This study has revealed that semi mechanized method of palm oil processing had a higher oil yield when compared to the traditional method.
The effective management of type 2 diabetes depends on the ability to improve insulin utilization... more The effective management of type 2 diabetes depends on the ability to improve insulin utilization, regulate blood glucose, and control hyperlipidaemia. Performance of Corchorus olitorius leaves in these three areas was evaluated using alloxan induced diabetic Wistar rats. Nutrient composition of C. olitorius leaves was determined using standard AOAC methods; alpha-amylase inhibitor content of the leaves was determined after extraction with four solvent systems. Some bioactive compounds in C. olitorius were identified with GC-MS. Diets were formulated to contain 0-20% C. olitorius and fed to alloxan-induced diabetic rats for 70 days. Indices of nutritional quality, biochemical indices and histopathology of the pancreas were compared in the experimental animals. Water and 99% ethanol were the best solvents for extracting alpha amylase inhibitor from C. olitorius leaves. 9-octadecanoic acid (Z), benzoic acid,2 phenyl ester, 9-octadeceneZmethylester and hexadecenoic acids were major bioactive compounds identified in C. olitorius leaves by GC-MS. Formulated diets containing C. olitorius decreased feed intake, body mass gain, glycosylated haemoglobin (HBA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs) in a concentration dependent manner. HDL-C (good cholesterol) increased. C. olitorius caused the regeneration of the pancreas of the alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Corchorus olitorius leaves is effective for the control of hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia.
Abstract: BACKGROUND/ OBJECTIVES. The effective management of type 2 diabetes depends on the abil... more Abstract: BACKGROUND/ OBJECTIVES. The effective management of type 2 diabetes depends on the ability to maintain or improve insulin utilization, regulation of blood glucose, and the control of hyperlipidaemia. The effectiveness of Corchorus olitorius leaves in these three domains were evaluated in the present research. The objective of this research was to evaluate the ameliorative effects of Corchorus olitorius leaves on alloxan induced diabetes in Wistar rats METHODS. Nutrient composition of shade dried C. olitorius leaves was determined using standard AOAC methods.; alpha-amylase inhibition potentials of C. olitorius leaves were determined using four solvent systems. Bioactive compounds in C. olitorius were determined using GC-MS. Diets were formulated to contain 0-20% C. olitorius and fed to alloxan-induced diabetic rats alongside positive and negative standards for 70 days. Indices of nutritional quality and biochemical indices were compared in diabetic, diabetic/nutritionally managed and normoglycaemic Wistar rats. Histopathology of the pancreas of the three groups of animals were also compared. RESULTS. Water and 99% ethanol were the best solvents for extracting alpha amylase inhibitor from C. olitorius leaves. 9-octadecanoic acid (Z), benzoic acid,2 phenyl ester, 9-octadeceneZ-methylester and hexadecenoic acids were bioactive compounds identified in C. olitorius leaves. Formulated diets containing C. olitorius decreased feed intake, body mass gain, HBA1c, fasting blood glucose (FBG), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs) in a concentration dependent manner. HDL-C (good cholesterol) increased. C. olitorius caused the regeneration of the islets of Langerhans of the alloxan -induced diabetic rats. 2 CONCLUSION. Corchorus olitorius leaves is effective for the control of hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia. Its water and ethanol extracts contain significant quantities of alpha amylase inhibitor that slows down carbohydrate breakdown into sugars thereby controlling the blood glucose level.
An indigenous fermented beverage; Pito, produced from sorghum using Lactobacillus sake as starter... more An indigenous fermented beverage; Pito, produced from sorghum using Lactobacillus sake as starter culture was investigated, characterised and its microbial quality established. Lactic acid bacteria a probiotic organism was isolated from the pito .The microbial and biochemical tests carried showed that the microbial isolate do not posses antimicrobial activity against staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and klebsiella. The introduction of the isolated lactic acid bacteria into the pito beverage and allowed incubation period of 0-144h showed significant variations in the quality characteristics of this indigenous dink. The optimum incubation period required to achieve high quality pito drink was established at 48hr at 28 o C where even the microbial load of the fermented drink was within accepted limit.
The proximate, dietary fibre, mineral and antinutrient compositions of Gongronema latifolium (lea... more The proximate, dietary fibre, mineral and antinutrient compositions of Gongronema latifolium (leaves), Gymnema sylvestre (leaves), Corchorus olitorius (leaves) and Bulchozia coriceae (seeds) were evaluated. Diabetes was induced in selected albino rats while the control groups were normal. Both groups were fed diets containing different levels of each plant product (0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0% respectively) for twenty-eight days. Effects of plant products on blood glucose, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium levels of experimental animals were evaluated. The crude protein, fat, dietary fibre and carbohydrate composition of the four plant products were significantly (p<0.05) different. Insoluble and soluble dietary fibre were significantly (p<0.05) higher in G. sylvestre and G. latifolium respectively. Sodium and potassium levels were highest in C. olitorius. Saponin content was highest in G. latifolium. There was a dose-dependent decrease in blood glucose and sodium concentration in all the diets groups. C. olitorius fed-diet reduced mean body weights of experimental animals throughout the four weeks of study.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ambient temperature storage (29±2°C) and ... more The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ambient temperature storage (29±2°C) and domestic processing on the carotenoids, chlorophylls, vitamins and minerals in Pterocarpus mildbraedii leaves. Total β-carotene was determined spectrophotometrically while HPLC was used for detailed analysis of carotenoids. The results indicated that P. mildbraedii was rich in lutein (261.96µg/gdwt) and Total-βcarotene (83.53µg/gdwt). Cooking and storage significantly (P>0.05) increased the contents of total β-carotene. β-carotene isomerized more, due to thermal processing than storage. Initial concentrations of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and chlorophyll a/b ratio were 1.86 mg/gfwt, 0.72mg/gfwt and 2.44 mg/gfwt respectively. Preliminary nutritional data including the mineral elements (K, Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe) and vitamins contents (ascorbic and, riboflavin, thiamin, Niacin and phyllquinone) are presented. Cooking significantly decreased (P < 0.05) the contents of chlorophylls, water soluble vitamins and minerals. However, storage conditions in our study resulted in a nonstatistical decrease in the contents of vitamins and minerals when compared with raw samples. The levels of β-carotene (Vitamin A), riboflavin, ascorbic acid and phylloquinone in cooked leave sample, are adequate to meet their corresponding RDAs in Children and adults respectively.
Yams (Discorea spp) are food security crops which serve as invaluable food sources of energy, mic... more Yams (Discorea spp) are food security crops which serve as invaluable food sources of energy, micronutrients and phytochemicals with numerous health benefits. They show a lot of genetic and compositional diversity. New biologically active compounds are being identified from wild yams. This review focuses on the nutrients, and phytochemicals found in yam species and their health benefits. The B group of vitamins, vitamin C, pro-vitamin A; copper; manganese; isoflavones; steroidal saponins; alkaloids; terpenes; and anthocyanidins are found in different species of yams. Wild yams such as Discorea villosa and Discorea hispida are used in ethnomedicine because of their phytochemical content. Diosgenin, dioscorin, dioscin dihydrodiscorine protodioscin, methyprotodioscin, prosapogenin, epifzelechin, glucopyranoside, phytoestrogen and allantoin are bioactive phytochemicals that may be found in yams. They are valuable as anti-cancer, anti-mutagenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-ageing lipid lowering and hepatoprotective agents. Other claims based on traditional uses of yams have not been scientifically substantiated. Dioscorea species are likely to contain other unidentified secondary metabolites. Discorea species with other health promoting bioactive compounds should be identified; modern techniques should be used to extract yet unidentified compounds in Discorea and the food use and health benefits of yam species should be optimized.
The sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L Lam) is a famine crop with great potentials to supply bioenerg... more The sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L Lam) is a famine crop with great potentials to supply bioenergy and curb hidden hunger in developing countries. It is a unique root crop containing four nutrients that exceed 10% of the recommended daily amount (RDA) (vitamin A/beta carotene; vitamin C; fiber and potassium). Commendable research efforts have been made to
The nexus between sustainable food security, nutrition, food safety, processing and preservation ... more The nexus between sustainable food security, nutrition, food safety, processing and preservation is largely unexplored. While limited progress is being made in the production sector globally, underutilized foods abound under different nomenclatures (orphan crops, forgotten foods, abandoned, underdeveloped, minor, neglected, or lost crops). Food systems influence dietary outcomes and have social, economic, and environmental impacts. Several indigenous foods are no longer part of contemporary diets, representing an erosion of biocultural heritage. Appropriate methods of cultivation, processing, preservation, and preparation are required for a nutritious safe, and healthy diet. Foods that require research attention abound in different parts of the world.
Changes Induced by Modification on the Rheological Properties of Icacina trichantha Starch, 2017
Abstract This research aimed at investigating the potentials of a non-food source of starch for u... more Abstract This research aimed at investigating the potentials of a non-food source of starch for use in food and industrial application. It will reduce competition for sources of food which are also used as sources of starch for the industry. In this work starch from Icacina trichantha tubers (under-utilized crop) were isolated and the purity level determined. The native starch was chemically modified using acid (HCl), alkaline (NaOH) and oxidized using H2O2. Functional properties, pasting properties were determined and photomicrographs of the starch samples were obtained. Bulk density of native and modified starches ranged from 0.56 to 0.78; pH 3.50 to 8.86; Gelatinization temperature 60 to 80°C; water holding capacity 64.0 to 72.0; swelling power 6.71 to 10.71; wettability 07.47 to 18.94 and solubility 14 to 37. The peak viscosity ranged from 143.0 to 2965.0 RVU. The native starch had the highest peak viscosity (at a temperature of 84.10°C in 4.53 min) and acid treated had the lowest (at 85.70°C in 4.33 min). The breakdown viscosity ranged from 120.0 to 1291.0 RVU with the alkaline treated starch having the highest while acid treated starch had the lowest. The final viscosity ranged from 81.0 to 2066.0 RVU. Alkaline treated starch had the highest value while acid treated starch had the lowest value. The setback viscosity ranged between 58.0 and 737.0 RVU with the alkaline treated starch having the highest value and acid treated starch having the lowest value. The pasting temperature ranged from 84.10 to 85.90°C. The photomicrographs showed that the starch granules in all the samples had irregular shape, generally small to medium sized with sizes ranging from 30 to 110nm and granular frequency ranging from 45 to 183. Icacina trichantha starch resembled conventional food starches, and will compete favourably with them in food systems as an industrial starch
Comparative Evaluation of Domestic Processing and Storage Losses of Micronutrients and the Health Benefits of Five Underutilized Green Leafy Vegetables (Glvs), 2023
Talinum triangulare, Amaranthus hybridus, Gnetum africanum, Pterocarpus mildbraedii and Telfairia... more Talinum triangulare, Amaranthus hybridus, Gnetum africanum, Pterocarpus mildbraedii and Telfairia occidentalis are underutilized Green Leafy Vegetables (GLVs). Storage and cooking losses undermine their nutritional and health benefits. T. triangulare has strong anti-oxidant properties; A. hybridus is good for managing blood pressure; T. occidentalis possess hypolipidaemic and anti-hyperglycaemic effects; G. africanum possess anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties; P. mildbraedii is an anti-microbial agent and is useful for the management of respiratory disorders. This review presents a comparative evaluation of the effects of moist heat treatment (boiling for 5 min at 98°C) and storage (at 29 ± 2°C), on the nutrients found in these vegetables which have health benefits for humans. Moist heat treatment reduces the vitamin content of the GLVs while the mineral content is more stable to cooking and storage conditions. Cooking reduces minerals in T. occidentalis (for zinc, iron, magnesium, and calcium) and iron for. Cooking losses were high for niacin in P. mildbraedii; loss of riboflavin was highest in A. hybridus while the loss of vitamin C was highest in T. triangulare. Nutrient loses through other improved processing methods such as sautéing, microwave heating, freezing, irradiation should be established. Processing methods that will reduce the loss of water-soluble vitamins and iron should be investigated. Additional health benefits of each vegetable should be scientifically established.
The inaugural lecture which is entitled “CLOSE TO NATURE’ is a discourse on my research inspirati... more The inaugural lecture which is entitled “CLOSE TO NATURE’ is a discourse on my research inspiration as an academic and the humble efforts my colleagues and I have made to develop the frontiers of knowledge in the area of Food Science and Technology. We are in the business of promoting Food security in the Africa region
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Papers by Philippa C Ojimelukwe
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CONCLUSION. Corchorus olitorius leaves is effective for the control of hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia. Its water and ethanol extracts contain significant quantities of alpha amylase inhibitor that slows down carbohydrate breakdown into sugars thereby controlling the blood glucose level.
largely unexplored. While limited progress is being made in the production sector globally,
underutilized foods abound under different nomenclatures (orphan crops, forgotten foods,
abandoned, underdeveloped, minor, neglected, or lost crops). Food systems influence dietary
outcomes and have social, economic, and environmental impacts. Several indigenous foods are no
longer part of contemporary diets, representing an erosion of biocultural heritage. Appropriate
methods of cultivation, processing, preservation, and preparation are required for a nutritious safe,
and healthy diet. Foods that require research attention abound in different parts of the world.
2
CONCLUSION. Corchorus olitorius leaves is effective for the control of hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia. Its water and ethanol extracts contain significant quantities of alpha amylase inhibitor that slows down carbohydrate breakdown into sugars thereby controlling the blood glucose level.
largely unexplored. While limited progress is being made in the production sector globally,
underutilized foods abound under different nomenclatures (orphan crops, forgotten foods,
abandoned, underdeveloped, minor, neglected, or lost crops). Food systems influence dietary
outcomes and have social, economic, and environmental impacts. Several indigenous foods are no
longer part of contemporary diets, representing an erosion of biocultural heritage. Appropriate
methods of cultivation, processing, preservation, and preparation are required for a nutritious safe,
and healthy diet. Foods that require research attention abound in different parts of the world.