Evaluation of tigernut accessions in Ghana for proximate and mineral composition

Tigernut ( Cyperus esculentus L.) is a nutritious, yet underutilised crop in Ghana. The objective of this study was to characterise Ghanaian tigernut accessions for proximate and mineral composition, as a guide for breeders for varietal development. Field and laboratory studies were conducted on 24 tigernut accessions from major growing areas of Ghana. The accessions were cultivated during the minor the growing season (September - November), at the Multipurpose Nursery of the University of Education, Winneba, Asante Mampong in Ghana. The nuts were analysed for proximate (carbohydrate, energy, moisture, ether extract, crude fiber, crude protein and ash) and mineral (potassium, phosphorus and calcium) composition. There were significant (P