Comparative Study of Proximate and Elemental Composition of Banana Peels and Palm Bunch as Substitutes for Preparing Alkaline Ash for Domestic Consumption

Abstract

Imeh J. Okop^*, and Richard A. Ukpe

Potash is commonly used in numerous traditional dishes and is majorly prepared using limestone, which may be relatively scarce in some region. This study seeks to produced and analysed potash from banana peel and palm bunch in order to compare their proximate and elemental composition. The results of the analysis revealed that inorganic (ash) contents were 12.78, 21.40 and 18.60 mg/l for potash produced from banana peel, palm bunch and limestone. Corresponding values for fibre (3.65, 2.41, 18.60 mg/l), lipid (17.87, 16.50 and 13.56 mg/l), carbohydrate (5.23, 6.03 and 6.00 mg/l) and energy value (423.73, 387.26 and 342.28 J) were also estimated. The samples showed high concentration of calcium and potassium (which are essential elements), relatively low concentrations of iron and manganese (which are trace elements) and low concentrations of lead and cadmium, which are toxic metals. Although potash from banana peel and palm bunch waste displayed comparative nutrient and elemental functions, their usefulness maybe limited by the presence of heavy metals if not properly processed or checked.