Estimation of nutritional potential in leafy mustard (Brassica juncea var. rugosa) germplasm: Chemical characterization

Leafy Mustard (Brassica juncea var. rugosa) is a popular green vegetable grown in plains and hills of Northern India. It is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and protein. The present investigation carried out with 31 germplasm during November–February 2018–2019 at Vegetable Research Center (VRC). Nutraceutical properties of each genotype were determined at G.B.P.U.A & T. Laboratory Pantnagar. The estimation of micronutrient (iron, zinc manganese by atomic absorption spectrophotometer), macronutrient (phosphorus and potassium by spectrophotometer and flame photometer), protein and nitrogen (by Kjeldahl method) were done. Analysis of coefficient of variation showed significant differences among the genotypes for all the traits. All 31 genotypes showed variability in neutraceutical property. Highest protein content (33.38%), nitrogen (5.55%), phosphorus (1400.33 mg/100g), potassium (2770.00 mg/100g), iron (30.56 mg/100g), zinc (5.73 mg/100g) and manganese (4.94 mg/100g) was observed in PLM-16. We can state that above genotypes were promising and can be utilized for further improvement programme in leafy mustard. The genotypes which are rich in neutraceutical properties can be used for plant biofortification.