Exploring nutritional quality and bioactive compounds in Mediterranean bean landraces

This study aimed to characterize the nutritional and nutraceutical properties of ten Mediterranean bean landraces compared to a commercial variety (Big Borlotto, Batlle Seeds). Significant genetic diversity was found among the landraces, affecting their nutritional composition, mineral content, and bioactive compounds. Essential minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc exhibited considerable variability, with landraces 103, 15, 40, and 102 showing higher mineral levels than the control variety. The fatty acid profiles varied, with linolenic acid being predominant, accounting for 39.1–47.3 % of total fat, depending on the genotype. Positive correlations between fatty acids and mineral content suggest complex interdependencies influencing grain quality, with the strongest correlations observed between Mg and linolenic (r = 0.66) or palmitic (r = 0.63) acids. Beans with colored seed coats exhibited higher antioxidant capacity attributed to phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, and ascorbic acid, emphasizing seed coat color as an indicator of nutritional quality. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified five clusters based on physical and nutritional traits, revealing correlations between seed size, color, and quality. These findings highlight the potential of bean landraces to promote local economies and biodiversity. • Mediterranean bean landraces show significant genetic diversity. • Traditional beans have higher mineral content than commercial varieties. • Colored seed coats are associated with higher antioxidant levels. • Linolenic acid is the main fatty acid across all genotypes. • Genotypes are grouped into five clusters based on physical and nutritional traits.