Proximate Composition and Nutritional Evaluation of Selected Indigenous Leafy Vegetables in Cross River State

Indigenous leafy vegetables constitute an important component of dietary nutrition in rural and peri-urban communities across South South Nigeria, yet their nutritional profiles remain incompletely characterised in the scientific literature. This study evaluates the proximate composition, mineral content, and anti-nutritional factors of five commonly consumed indigenous leafy vegetables obtained from local markets and farms in Cross River State. The selected vegetables include Gnetum africanum, Heinsia crinita, Pterocarpus mildbraedii, Talinum triangulare, and Corchorus olitorius. Proximate analysis was conducted using the AOAC methods to determine moisture, crude protein, crude fibre, crude fat, ash, and nitrogen-free extract content. Mineral analysis for calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium was carried out via flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Anti-nutritional factors assessed include oxalates, phytates, and tannins. Results show that Gnetum africanum and Pterocarpus mildbraedii exhibited notably high crude protein and iron content relative to the other samples, suggesting their potential as affordable protein and micronutrient sources for low-income populations. Anti-nutritional factor levels were within tolerable dietary thresholds in most vegetables when consumed in conventional portions. The study underscores the nutritional importance of indigenous vegetables and advocates for their integration into national food security and nutrition policies. Keywords: indigenous vegetables, proximate composition, Cross River State, anti-nutritional factors, minerals