engleski

Status of microelements in leek on the Zagreb market

Leek (Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum) is a biannual plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. Leek is important vegetable crop, present in the market due to its nutritive and health benefits. Althoguh plants contain lower amount of macroelements compared to macroelements, microelements (such as iron, manganese, zinc and copper) are essential and equally relevant for plant nutrition as macroelements. Therefore, the deficiency of microelements has a significant negative impact on development and growth of the plant. Microelements in plants have significant and complex functions, most of which are connected to enzymatic reactions due to their ability to accept and release electrons. Proper diet is a precondition for everyday functioning of an organism. As for plants, microelements are equally essential for growth and development of human organism too, which are intaken by food consumption. When purchasing fruits and vegetables, the average consumer is not informed about the content of minerals found in the product they choose to consume. Therefore, the aim of this research paper was to determine the content of microelements of leek on the market. Sampling was conducted across nine purchase point in the city of Zagreb, including three markets, three retail chains and three eco produce shops. Samples were first dried, then homogenized which was followed by digestion in the microwave oven with HNO3 and HClO4. Microelements (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu) were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Dry matter in leek ranged from 8.38 to 9.97%. The determined leek microelements content in dry matter (mg/kg DW) ranged as follows 76.2- 153.1 Fe, 12.9-16.2 Mn, 18.5-26.2 Zn and 5.4- 7.1 Cu, while in fresh matter (mg/100 g of fresh matter) ranged as follows: 0.91-1.71 Fe, 0.14-0.20 Mn, 0, 21-0, 30 Zn and 0, 06-0, 08 Cu. Generaly, the highest microelements content was determined in the leek sampled in retail chains. Comparing the recommended daily intake for humans with determined values of microelements, leek sampled in this research could satisfy 6.5-12.2% Fe, 7.0-10.0% Mn, 2.1- 3.0% Zn and 6.0-8.0% Cu of daily intake.

Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum, iron, manganese, micronutrient, minerals

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