Preliminary nutritional characterization of some wild edible fruits from Lebanon

Lebanese flora is endowed with a richness of temperate wild fruit trees that have traditionally been a valuable source for food and nutritional benefits. This study was initiated to characterize the composition and nutritional value of some of the most commonly consumed indigenous Lebanese wild fruits including Crataegus azarolus, Malus trilobata, Myrtus communis, Prunus ursine, and Pyrus syriaca. Energy, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, minerals (Mg, Ca, Fe and K) and vitamin C ( Ascorbic acid) were examined in the edible fruit parts by AOAC Official Methods. Results revealed that the assessed wild fruits were of considerable nutritional values and have the potential to provide essential nutrients, namely vitamin C and Fe. It can be postulated that the use of these fruits can contribute to food security and increased dietary diversity and nutrition and may help in scaling up the prevention of certain nutrient deficiencies of concern in Lebanon. Future research with other wild fruits is recommended toward promoting the integration of wild plants into food security and sustainable development programs for local communities.