Proximate Analysis and Phytochemical Analysis of Pleurotus tuber-regium Sold in Awka, South-East Nigeria

This study investigates the proximate and phytochemical composition of Pleurotus tuber-regium (PT) commonly sold in Awka, South-East Nigeria. Proximate analysis determines the basic nutritional components—moisture, ash, fibre, lipid, protein, and carbohydrate—while phytochemical analysis identifies and quantifies the bioactive compounds present in plants. Standard gravimetric and instrumental methods were employed for the analyses. The proximate composition of PT revealed a high carbohydrate content (61.161%), followed by protein (16.800%) and moisture (13.793%). Fibre, ash, and fat contents were 1.675%, 3.008%, and 3.593%, respectively. Phytochemical constituents included saponins (5.984%), cardiac glycosides (3.947%), tannins (9.676%), alkaloids (4.804%), flavonoids (4.597%), phytate (0.563%), anthocyanins (3.234%), cyanogenic glycosides (2.646 mg/kg), oxalate (0.343 mg/kg), steroids (1.316 mg/kg), phenols (2.870 mg/kg), and hemagglutinins (0.420 mg/kg). The results indicate that PT is a rich source of carbohydrates and contains a considerable amount of protein, supporting its wide organoleptic appeal and dietary value. The presence of various phytochemicals further suggests its potential antioxidant properties and ability to scavenge free radicals.