Assessment of proximate composition and antinutrients of bean varieties grown in stony soils in Southeastern Mexico

Aim: The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a vital source of protein, dietary fiber, minerals, and bioactive compounds in rural and low-income populations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the proximate composition, antinutritional factors, and cooking quality of four black bean varieties (Jamapa, Grijalva, Tacaná, and INIFAP) grown in stony soils of Southeastern Mexico. Methods: Moisture, crude protein, crude fat, ash, crude fiber, and total carbohydrates were determined. The antinutritional factors assessed included cyanogenic glycosides, tannins, trypsin inhibitors, and phytates. Cooking quality was evaluated via cooking time and cooked grain hardness. All determinations were made in triplicate, and statistical differences among varieties were evaluated by one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) post-hoc test (p < 0.05). Results: Significant differences were found between varieties (p < 0.05), with Jamapa and Grijalva standing out for their higher protein content (~27.5%) and, along INIFAP, for their low trypsin inhibitor content (~4 ITU/mg), while their phytate levels ranged between 46 and 65 mg/g. All antinutritional factors were found within acceptable ranges for human consumption. Regarding technological properties, the Tacaná variety exhibited the shortest cooking time (25.3 min) and cooked grain hardness (1.86 N), making it an attractive option for consumers and the food industry. Conclusions: The evaluated bean varieties showed favorable nutritional profiles, low antinutrient concentrations, and superior cooking performance, rendering them suitable for human consumption. Their successful adaptation to stony-soil conditions underscores their potential to enhance agricultural and nutritional resilience in marginal environments.