Analysis of Nutritional Factors of Leaf Protein Concentrate (LPC) from Girardinia heterophylla (Decne)

摘要

Girardinia heterophylla (Decne), distributed extensively in Middle Himalayas, is a potential source of LeafProtein Concentrate (LPC). Present study envisages the phytochemical investigations to assess the availability andcommercial viability of LPC of Girardinia heterophylla. Samples of plant leaves were collected from Mussoorie Hills ofUttarakhand (India) and contents of LPC were isolated. Proximate analysis of LPC for nitrogen, protein, fat, ash andcarbohydrate content revealed their concentration in appreciable quantities making it a potential source of nonconventionalprotein. LPC has important biochemical characteristics, which establish the usefulness and potential ofleaves of this plant to be used as animal fodder for better milk production and also as nutritionally rich source for proteinfor human consumption.