Evaluation of the biochemical and nutritional profiles of <i>Solanum aethiopicum</i> L. subsp Kumba fruits: implications for diet and health

African eggplant Solanum aethiopicum L. subsp., is an important vegetable crop in tropical regions, particularly in Burkina Faso. The present study was initiated with the aim of carrying out a biochemical characterization of its fruit called “Kumba”. The macromolecule contents were determined by standard methods. The mineral contents were quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry. Amino acid and fatty acid profiles were carried out using PICO-TAG and gas chromatography methods, respectively. The results showed that “Kumba” are contained high level of water (89.04 to 93.83%, FM). Total protein contents ranged from 882.07 to 2673.73 µg BSAE/100 mg DW, and total fat percentage ranged from 0.30 to 9.78%. Total and reducing sugar contents ranged from 6189.71 to 10514.09 and 86.92 to 1590.50 µg ME/100 mg DW, respectively. The ash content fluctuated from 5.08 to 7.98% DW and minerals such as potassium; magnesium; calcium; sodium and iron had contents of up to 3218.54; 2003.00; 1681.04; 1422.28 and 992.04 µg/100 mg DW, respectively. The profiles also showed amino acid diversity (6.9 to 13.81% DW) and fatty acids in the fruits of “Kumba”. S. aethiopicum L., which can grow in hard conditions, such as high temperatures or drought, constitutes an interesting source of nutrients that can potentially contribute to ensure food and nutrition security, and public health.