Various fruits of the savanna ecosystem with economic potential are consumed raw or processed by the natives. However, there are a few scientific studies on their chemical composition and nutritional values. The aim of this research was to evaluate proximate composition, caloric values, calcium, iron and zinc content from fruits found in the savanna ecosystem: macaúba; caju-do-cerrado; araticum; murici; gabiroba; cagaita; mangaba; puçá; araçá; chichá and pitomba. Moisture, protein, total fat, dietary fiber and ash were carried out by using methods traditionally used in the specific literature. Calcium, iron and zinc were analytically quantified and the total caloric value of raw fruits was estimated in accordance with Atwater´s conversion values. Protein, fat and carbohydrate concentration of fruits were relatively low, except for chichá and macaúba. The dietary fiber values ranged from 1.04 to 11.14g 100g-1, being the highest values for araçá, chichá, macaúba and murici. Calcium, iron and zinc were found in considerable concentration in araticum, chichá, macaúba and mangaba. The fruits of the savanna ecosystem investigated may be alternative sources of nutrients, thus attention will be turned to the possibility of their utilization in regional menu and snack for school children.
proximate composition; nutritive value; minerals
