Chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Rapa Catozza Napoletana (Brassica rapa L. var. rapa DC.) seed meal, a promising protein source of Campania region (southern Italy) horticultural germplasm

BACKGROUND: The present study is the first effort in a comprehensive evaluation of the nutritive and biological properties of the meal from Rapa Catozza Napoletana (RCN) (Brassica rapa L. var. rapa) cultivar seeds as a new and alternative source of proteins. RESULTS: RCN seed meal revealed a good protein content (382.0 g kg(-1)) compared with conventional Brassica defatted meals. Total glucosinolates (6.0 g kg(-1)) were comparable to or even lower than those reported for other yellow-and brown-seeded cultivars. Low levels of both sinapine and phytic acid (10.0 and 10.0 g kg(-1) respectively) suggest a minor influence of these compounds on meal mineral availability. The meal revealed quite a high polyphenolic content (13.0 g kg(-1)) composed of flavonol and hydroxycinnamic derivatives. With regard to meal biological properties, a higher radical-scavenging potential than reducing capacity and a broad antimicrobial spectrum, mainly against food-borne pathogens, were detected. CONCLUSION: RCN seed meal could be highly regarded as a component of human nutrition and animal feed for its good protein content, desirable amino acid profile and low antinutrient concentration. Results for the sample indicated appreciable antiradical activity and good properties formeal stability. (C) 2011 Society of Chemical Industry