INVESTIGATION OF RAW WHEAT

This study evaluated the phytochemical and physicochemical properties of raw wheat grains (Triticum aestivum L.) sourced from Warri, Delta State, to provide region-specific data on its nutritional and functional potential. Although wheat is a globally important staple, localized compositional data for Southern Nigeria are limited; this research addresses that gap by characterizing bioactive constituents, proximate composition, mineral content, and vitamin C level in locally obtained grain. The objectives were to qualitatively screen for major phytochemicals, determine proximate composition (moisture, ash, crude fat, crude fibre, crude protein, carbohydrate), quantify selected minerals (Na, K, Mg, Ca, Fe, Zn), and measure vitamin C content. Standard laboratory protocols were used: reagent-based qualitative assays for phytochemicals (e.g., Wagner’s, Salkowski, ferric chloride, Fehling’s tests), AOAC procedures for proximate analysis, atomic absorption spectrophotometry for mineral quantification following acid digestion, and a titrimetric method for vitamin C. Key findings show the presence of glycosides, saponins, alkaloids, phenolics, terpenoids, flavonoids, and reducing sugars, while tannins and steroids were absent. Proximate values were: moisture 12.78%, ash 2.15%, crude fat 1.92%, crude fibre 2.39%, crude protein 10.81%, and carbohydrate 69.95%. Mineral concentrations (mg/kg) were: K 3650, Mg 1635.5, Ca 272, Fe 67, Zn 28.51, and Na 62.86. Vitamin C was low (mean 0.260 ± 0.01 mg/100 g). These results indicate that the wheat sample is energy-dense, storage-stable (moisture <14%), and rich in bioactive phenolics and flavonoids that confer antioxidant and potential cardioprotective benefits. The absence of tannins suggests reduced antinutritional effects, although mineral bioavailability may still be influenced by other factors (e.g., phytates). Implications include supporting promotion of whole-wheat consumption to maximize intake of fibre, minerals, and phytochemicals, and recommending dietary complementation with vitamin C–rich foods to improve micronutrient utilization. The study provides data for Warri-sourced wheat and underscores the need for quantitative phytochemical assays, bioavailability studies post-processing, and region-wide comparisons or biofortification efforts.