Exploring the nutritional potential of Camelina sativa genotypes: A study on minerals and bioactive compounds

Camelina sativa is a member of the Brassicaceae family and is characterized as an annual oilseed plant with a short growth cycle. Its seeds offer rich nutritional value comparable with other feed and food sources due to the presence of high-quality oils, protein, essential fatty acids, and bioactive compounds. Our study investigated mineral profile and bioactive compound contents among two different camelina genotypes. The evaluated camelina genotypes NS Zlatka and NS Slatka were developed in Serbia. The bioactive compound investigation included total phenolic and flavonoid contents, chlorophyll a and b, and total carotenoid contents. Furthermore, antioxidant activity was assessed by measuring the DPPH-scavenging capacity of camelina seed extracts. The results demonstrate differences in mineral content between the two genotypes, with variations in sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, manganese, copper, and phosphorus levels. Both genotypes exhibit notable mineral profiles, with particularly high levels of potassium (1007.76-1047.74 mg/100 g) and magnesium (224.09-227.45 mg/100 g), which makes them potentially valuable for both animal feed and human nutrition. Furthermore, analysis reveals substantial levels of total phenolic (8.13-8.16 mg GAE/g DM) and flavonoid (5.91-6.41 mg QE/g DM) compounds in both genotypes, indicating their suitability for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Chlorophyll content analysis demonstrates significant differences between the two genotypes, particularly in chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b levels. These variations suggest differences in photosynthetic capacity and seed maturity. Total carotenoid content remains consistent between the genotypes at levels from 16.43 to 17.91 µg b-CE/g DM, implying similar antioxidant protection mechanisms. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the biochemical properties of two camelina genotypes, indicating their potential applications in agriculture and human nutrition.