LAUSR

Abstract Effect of gamma irradiation on the nutritionally potent underutilized wild legume Vigna aconitifolia at various doses (2, 5, 10, 15 and 25 kGy) were assessed for its nutritional and antinutritional factors. Gamma irradiation significantly enhanced the crude protein content at all doses, while crude lipid, crude fibre and ash resulted in a significant dose-dependent decline. Raw seeds are rich in potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese and vitamins (niacin and ascorbic acid); significant diminution was reported in irradiated seeds. The essential amino acids of raw and gamma irradiated seeds were comparable with the FAO/WHO recommended pattern. A significant dose -dependent increase in IVPD on irradiation was observed. High amount of saturated fatty acids decreased after irradiation. However, linoleic acid, palmitoleic acid and eicosenoic acid were increased after irradiation at 25 kGy. Irradiating the seeds with gamma rays significantly curtailed the levels of the toxic non-proteinaceous amino acid, L -DOPA, hydrogen cyanide, trypsin inhibitors, oligosaccharides and phytohaemagglutinins. The aromatic compound, phenols, the water soluble polyphenols and tannins showed a dose-dependent significant increase. The overall findings are the indications to improvise the nutritional traits of the gamma irradiated underutilized tribal pulse, V. aconitifolia which could be a good source of protein for human consumption.