Phytochemical and Proximate Composition of Mucuna pruriens Seeds and Their Potential as Animal Feed Supplement in Oyo State

Mucuna pruriens, commonly known as velvet bean, is a multipurpose legume grown across South West Nigeria with potential as a protein-rich animal feed ingredient. However, its use is limited by the presence of anti-nutritional factors, particularly L-DOPA, tannins, and phytates. This study investigates the proximate composition and phytochemical profile of Mucuna pruriens seeds subjected to three processing methods, including raw, soaked, and cooked preparations, collected from farms in Oyo State. Proximate analysis was conducted using AOAC methods for crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, moisture, and ash content. Phytochemical screening was performed colorimetrically, and specific anti-nutritional factors including L-DOPA, tannins, phytates, and oxalates were quantified using validated methods. Results show that cooking significantly reduced L-DOPA content from 4.8 percent in raw seeds to 0.3 percent in cooked samples. Tannin and phytate contents were also substantially lowered by both soaking and cooking. Crude protein content ranged from 23.4 to 25.8 percent across treatment groups, indicating high protein retention after processing. Gross energy values were comparable to commercially available protein supplements. The study concludes that thermally processed Mucuna pruriens seeds represent a viable and affordable protein source for monogastric animal diets in the South West agro-ecological zone and recommends further palatability and performance trials in poultry. Keywords: Mucuna pruriens, proximate composition, anti-nutritional factors, animal feed, Oyo State