Abstract
Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the oldest cultivated oilseed crops in the world and is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It is valued for its high oil content, nutritional quality, and health-promoting phytochemicals, but prone to fungal pathogens. This research was carried out in the Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, and Food Science and Technology of Rivers State University. Dried seeds of S. indicum were purchased from mile 3 market, Port Harcourt. Mycological, nutrient and antinutrient compositions evaluation were done in triplicates using standard methods. Statistical analysis was done using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Nutrient compositions revealed carbohydrate (38.30±0.17%) with the highest value while ash (3.26±0.05%) the least. For minerals, phosphorus had the highest value (220.33±0.57mg/100g) while iron the least (0.27±0.57mg/100g). Vitamin C and A were present. Antinutrient composition revealed polyphenol (14.23±0.05%) as the highest, while oxalate (0.01±0.00) the least. Mycological studies revealed the presence of Aspergillus niger, and flavus. These pathogens affect both the quantity and quality of sesame seeds by lowering oil content and leading to mycotoxin contamination. In conclusion, S. indicum is rich in nutrients but prone to fungal contaminations. Therefore, effective postharvest management including moisture control, proper drying and hygienic storage practices is essential for minimizing fungal contamination and preserving seed quality.
Keyword: Nutrient, Antinutrient composition, Sesame and Fungal contaminantsjaerem NEW Wekhe
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