Chemical characterization of seeds and presscakes of physic nut, radish and crambe

Abstract

The objective of this work was to chemically characterize the seeds and presscakes of physic nut (Jatropha curcas), radish (Raphanus sativus) and crambe (Crambe abyssinica) after extracting the oil with a mechanical press. Whole seeds of these species were subjected to double cold pressing to extract the oil, or main product, and the presscake, or coproduct. The seeds and presscakes were evaluated regarding proximate composition and mineral profile. The lipid contents in the presscakes were lower when compared to the values presented in previous works, which characterizes good extraction efficiency and versatility of the employed press. Fibers are the most abundant component of physic nut presscakes, and comprise about 1/3 of their total composition. Protein is the largest fraction in radish presscakes, and crambe presents balanced fiber and protein contents. The presscakes are rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium, manganese, iron, zinc and boron.