Nutritional and chemical evaluation of pearl millet grains (Pennisetum typhoides (Burm. f.) Stapf & Hubbard, Poaceae) grown in the Gizan area of Saudi Arabia.

The proximate composition, minerals, amino acid profiles, grain protein contents of Pennisetum typhodies (Burm.f.) Stapf & Hubbard were analysed. The crude protein was 12.3%, fat 5.3% and ash 2.4%. The grains contained similar amounts of phosphorus, calcium and iron as compared to some Indian and African millets. Amino acid analysis indicated the presence of at least 17 amino acids including most of the essential ones. They were also characterized by the presence of sufficient quantities of essential amino acids and limiting amino acids. Comparisons were made with the results reported by FAO/WHO, the seed proteins showed the essential amino acid leucine was highest, while isoleucine and valine were within the range, but threonine, lysine and the sulphur containing amino acids were lower. In general the results indicate that this grain has a good nutritive value.