Biochemical Characterization of Underutilized Himalayan Fruit Species: Insights into Nutritional and Anti-nutritional Attributes

Abstract

The study was conducted during two consecutive seasons (May 2023–February, 2024 and May, 2024–February, 2025) in the Darjeeling Himalayan region, West Bengal, India to evaluate the physico-chemical, nutritional, and anti-nutritional properties of six lesser-known fruit species, namely Elaeagnus latifolia, Rubus ellipticus, Ficus roxburghii, Spondias axillaris, Eriolobus indica and Morus serrata. Fruits harvested at physiological maturity were analyzed using standard analytical procedures, and pooled data were expressed as mean±standard error of mean (SEm). Significant interspecific variation were observed for all parameters studied. Total soluble solids ranged from 6.28±0.22°Brix in Ficus roxburghii to 18.37±0.09°Brix in Morus serrata. Total sugars varied between 3.59±0.03% and 14.08±0.57%, while reducing sugars ranged from 1.82±0.12% in Elaeagnus latifolia to 7.54±0.25% in Rubus ellipticus. Titrable acidity was highest in Spondias axillaris (3.93±0.10%). Rubus ellipticus recorded the highest carbohydrate content (17.50±0.28%), whereas protein content was maximum in Spondias axillaris (6.65±0.05%). Eriolobus indica exhibited the highest crude fiber content (4.58±0.01%). Ascorbic acid content ranged from 3.37±0.05 to 34.93±0.15 mg 100 g^-1, while Morus serrata showed exceptionally high anthocyanin content (132.08±0.26 mg 100 g^-1). Qualitative screening indicated the presence of tannins and phenols in all species, with limited occurrence of other anti-nutritional factors. The results highlighted the nutritional richness and utilization potential of these underutilized fruits.