Effect of variety and location on the total fat, fatty acids and squalene content of amaranth

Abstract

Five varieties of Amaranthuscruentus were planted in 3 localities at different altitudes above sea level. They were subjected to equivalent agronomic practices and harvested at 120-130 days. Seeds were removed, dried to 12% moisture content and analysed for total fat, palmitic, stearic, oleic and linolenic acids and squalene contents. Oil content varied from 5.83 to 7.13%, palmitic acid from 17.06 to 21.35%, stearic acid from 3.05 to 3.80%, oleic acid from 20.26 to 32.01% and linoleic acid from 33.52 to 43.88%. Values for oil and fatty acid contents were similar to those found in the literature. The differences in the analytical values were not statistically significant for variety or location. Squalene content varied from 2.26 to 5.94% of the oil, which is similar to previous reports. Statistical analysis showed significant differences among localities but not varieties. It is suggested that environmental conditions, such as temp. and water availability, may lead to a greater accumulation of squalene in the grain.