Evaluation of Biochemical and Nutritional Potential of Seaweeds from Lakshadweep Archipelago

The variation of the proximate composition and mineral content of nine seaweeds available in the Lakshadweep group of islands were studied to evaluate their nutritional quality. The proximate composition and the mineral contents were determined as per standard methodologies. The nutritional quality was found to be comparable with common vegetables and fruits. Hansen's nutritional quality index has shown the seaweeds U. lactuca, H. valentea, and H. muciformis, in particular, to be safe for their versatile use and that they can contribute to a healthy balanced diet.