The objective of this work was the partial chemical characterization of the jatobá-do-cerrado (Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart.) seed in order to evaluate the potential value as a food and/or feed source and to contribute to the preservation of Brazilian native species from "cerrado" through valorization of its natural resources. Jatobá-do-cerrado seeds had a high crude fiber content (85.31%), 9.05% of crude protein and 5.30% of total lipids (dry basis). Amino acids analysis showed that protein was deficient in sulfur amino acids and treonin and high in other essential amino acids. Lipid fraction showed 75% of unsaturated fatty acid and linoleic acid was dominant (46.9%). Amongst the studied antinutritional factors, total phenolics (48mg/Êg of defatted flour, dry basis)) was higher than in other leguminous seeds. However, despite the fact that this seed showed lower macronutrients content than other legume seeds used as human food, the high fiber content, possibly composed of xiloglucanns and galactomananns could lead to an interesting use of these seeds.
jatobá; Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart.; leguminous; seeds; chemical composition
