Minerals of Cactus (<I>Opuntia dillenii</I>):Cladode and Fruit

Cladode (modified stem) and fruit of cactus (Opuntia dillenii) were analysed for their mineral content, following ashing and analysis by ICP-AES and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Values are expressed as mg per 100 g dry weight of the material. Cladode was analysed at three stages of growth; differences were noticed for K, Ca, Mg, P and Na, and also for Al, Ba, Cr, Mn and Pb contents. Cladode was observed to be a good source of K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe and Zn. Toxic elements such as Cd, Cu, Cr and Ni were well within the permissible limits; Pb and As were below detection levels. The fruit was found to contain 34%, 36%, 4% and 26% of pulp, peel, seed and waste (including spines) on fresh weight basis. Pulp was found to be a good source of K, Na, Ca, Mg and Fe. Toxic elements such as Pb, As, Hg and Se were below detection levels/ within permissible limits. These values of pulp were compared with the mineral contents of fruit peel and seed. Accordingly, both cladode and fruit can be used for edible purposes as food supplements, without endanger of toxicity from the angle of mineral constitution. The scope for their possible use in food formulation is highlighted.