Biochemical and phytochemical properties of the pulp of different forms of shea (Vitellaria paradoxa) in the northern region of Côte d'Ivoire

Shea (Vitellaria paradoxa) fruits were harvested in the departments of Korhogo (Lataha and Nalourgokaha), Sinematiali (Dahouakaha), Dikodougou, Boundiali and Ferké (Houphouekaha) in northern Côte d'Ivoire. The aim of this study is to add value to fresh shea fruit pulp in these departments. The classic biochemical analyses used revealed that fruit pulp is rich in a number of minerals, notably K, P, Mg, Na, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu and Ca. Potassium was the predominant mineral, with contents ranging from 1108 ±0.2 mg/100g to 1563 ±0.2 mg/100g for rounded pulp and 601.2±0.1 mg/100g to 1342 ±0.3 mg/100g for ovoid pulp. We also note the presence of polyphenols (108.46 ± 0.01 - 146.96 ± 0.01 mgEAG /100g for rounded fruit pulp and 116.60 ± 0.01 - 173.03 ± 0, 01 mgEAG/100g for ovoid fruit pulp) and flavonoids (19.69 ± 0.03 - 61.93 ± 0.01 mgEQ/100g for round fruit pulp and 27.61 ± 0.01 - 94.38 ± 0.01 mgEQ/100g for ovoid fruit pulp). In view of its composition, Vitellaria paradoxa pulp can help to prevent certain dietary imbalances and to treat certain pathologies.