Integrative Nutritional, physicochemical, and bioactive profiling of Sesamum radiatum seeds: A Potential Healthy Food Source

Abstract

Sesamum radiatum, a neglected relative of commercial sesame (S. indicum), holds significant potential as a source of nutritious seeds and oil. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of seeds from Nigeria, revealing a rich nutritional profile featuring high crude lipid (31.9%) and fiber (29.8%) content, alongside substantial mineral levels such as calcium (7.92 mg/g). Oil yield was substantial (32.0%), with favorable physicochemical properties including a high iodine value (192.9) and smoke point (224 °C). The oil demonstrated potent concentration-dependent antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 6.94 mg/mL). Crucially, GC-MS analysis revealed a unique fatty acid profile dominated by 10,13-octadecadienoic acid (41.77%), alongside linoleic (16.98%) and palmitic (6.17%) acids. Spectroscopic characteristics (UV-Vis and FT-IR) provide a distinct fingerprint for quality control. These findings underscore that S. radiatum is not merely an understudy to its commercial cousin but a valuable resource in its own right, with promising applications for the food, nutritional, and healthcare industries aimed at leveraging novel and sustainable plant oils.