Centesimal and Mineral Composition of Priprioca (Cyperus articulatus var. nodosus, Cyperaceae)

This study investigated a nutritional and mineral composition of the plant Cyperus articulatus var. nodosus, better known as priprioca. Priprioca was obtained in the Tabocal Community, Santarém, Pará, Brazil. 100mg of priprioca rhizomes were washed with 2% hypochlorite solution. These were dried in an oven at 40oC. The rhizomes were then ground to obtain a powder for analysis of the proximate and mineral composition. As a result, fiber, protein, carbohydrate and low lipid contents were found. Regarding minerals, higher levels of iron (118.5mg/100g), zinc (58.25mg/100g) were found, followed by potassium (50.6mg/100g). The results indicate that mineral values are valuable.