Determination of nutritional and energy value of Viburnum mullaha Buch.-Ham. Ex D. Don (Indian cranberry).

Nutritional and energy value of an underutilized wild edible Viburnum mullaha was determined. Vitamin analysis confirmed that the fruit contains high amounts of vitamin C (122.27 mg/100 g), vitamin B2 (0.14 mg/g), and vitamin E (13.47 mg/g). Macronutrient profile revealed that Viburnum mullaha is a rich source of carbohydrates (18.4 g/100 g), proteins (11.3 g/100 g), and lipids (18.4 g/100 g). It was calculated that 100 g of fruit berries can provide an average of 284.4 kcal (1185.7 kJ) energy. Analysis of magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and manganese estimated by atomic absorption spectrophotometer confirmed that fruit berries of Viburnum mullaha can be utilized for developing various edible products. This is the first study ever on the biochemical analysis and nutritional value of this species; hence, it will provide nutritional statistics that scientific societies and the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries can use for their expanding investigations of the ultrasonically assisted technique described here in food and medicine.

Seabuckthorn: an underutilized resource for the nutritional security and livelihood improvement of rural communities in Uttarakhand Himalaya.

Seabuckthorn (Hippophae salicifolia) is one of the potential underutilized plant species having huge multipurpose benefits including economic and ecological. Comparative study of fruit morphology, architecture, and juice yield productivity revealed that fruit berries of Seabuckthorn in Mana valley was found superior and can provide higher economic return than the berries of other plant species. Moreover, awareness programmes related to nutritional worth and development and demonstration of value added product resulted in economy generation for local inhabitants. Several countries are commercially and ecologically harnessing the potential of Seabuckthorn for livelihood enhancement and environmental conservation. Correspondingly, in Indian Himalayan region, Seabuckthorn plant can also offer benefits of nutrition, food, medicine, cosmetic, etc., to the rural people for their socioeconomic development. Findings presented here have important connotations in light of upcoming organic food and nutraceutical industries in the country. The current study will also help in developing value chain of Seabuckthorn in Uttarakhand.