Carotene and provitamin A content of vegetables sold in Viçosa, MG, Brazil, during spring and winter
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/S1984-82502009000300019Keywords:
α, -Carotene, β, Leafy vegetables^i1^sanaly, Provitamin AAbstract
This study investigated the α- and β-carotene content and provitamin A value of four leafy vegetables sold at local and street markets in Viçosa, MG, Brazil, in the spring and winter of 2002. Carotenoids were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. α-Carotene was detected in all samples sold during spring, but was only present in a few samples of smooth and curly lettuce and kale in winter. β-Carotene was found in marked quantities in all leafy vegetables analyzed. Duncan's test (α = 5%) showed significantly higher α-carotene content in curly lettuce and vitamin A value in large-leaved watercress in the spring. Mean β-carotene content and vitamin A value were 7544, 8751, 2584, 2792, 8193, and 5338 μg/100 g and 666, 760, 227, 238, 698, and 460 μg RAE/100 g in large-leaved and hydroponic watercress, smooth and curly lettuce, kale and spinach, respectively. All leafy vegetables analyzed represent important sources of provitamin A and supply an important part of the daily requirements of children and adults.Downloads
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Published
2009-09-01
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How to Cite
Carotene and provitamin A content of vegetables sold in Viçosa, MG, Brazil, during spring and winter . (2009). Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 45(3), 527-537. https://doi.org/10.1590/S1984-82502009000300019