African eggplant Solanum aethiopicum L. subsp., is an important vegetable crop in
tropical regions, particularly in Burkina Faso. The present study was initiated with the
aim of carrying out a biochemical characterization of its fruit called “Kumba”. The
macromolecule contents were determined by standard methods. The mineral contents
were quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry. Amino acid and fatty acid profiles
were carried out using PICO-TAG and gas chromatography methods, respectively. The
results showed that “Kumba” are contained high level of water (89.04 to 93.83%, FM).
Total protein contents ranged from 882.07 to 2673.73 μg BSAE/100 mg DW, and total fat
percentage ranged from 0.30 to 9.78%. Total and reducing sugar contents ranged from
6189.71 to 10514.09 and 86.92 to 1590.50 μg ME/100 mg DW, respectively. The ash
content fluctuated from 5.08 to 7.98% DW and minerals such as potassium; magnesium;
calcium; sodium and iron had contents of up to 3218.54; 2003.00; 1681.04; 1422.28 and
992.04 μg/100 mg DW, respectively. The profiles also showed amino acid diversity (6.9 to
13.81% DW) and fatty acids in the fruits of “Kumba”. S. aethiopicum L., which can grow in
hard conditions, such as high temperatures or drought, constitutes an interesting source
of nutrients that can potentially contribute to ensure food and nutrition security, and
public health.

Solanum aethiopicum; nutritional properties; amino acids; fatty acids; Burkina Faso