2013 Volume 19 Issue 2 Pages 163-172
Biochemical and mineral composition and some functional properties of seed kernel of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) cultivated in Southern Punjab, Pakistan, were determined. The seed kernel was found to be good source of crude protein (15.3 ± 0.09 g/100g dry weight) and total carbohydrate (69.72 ± 0.29 g/100g dry weight) and possesses high calorific value (364.10 ± 1.74 Kcal/100g dry weight). The seed kernel was also found to be good source of essential minerals such as Na, K, Mg, Fe, Co, Zn and P. Response-surface methodology was used to study the effect of temperature and heating time on some functional properties of flour of seed kernel. Significant linear positive effect (p < 0.05) of temperature on swelling capacity and that of heating time on water absorption capacity and solubility was observed. Both variables have significant quadratic effect (p < 0.05) on water absorption and foaming capacities. The data provides valuable guidelines regarding the use of lotus seed kernel in food formulations.
