Philippine Pili (Canarium ovatum, Engl.) varieties as source of essential minerals and trace elements in human nutrition

Macro and micro mineral profiles as well as potential toxic metals of both pulp and kernel of seven Pili nut (Canarium ovatum) varieties were established. Further, bioavailability was assessed through in vitro method simulating gastric and intestinal condition. Quantification was done using Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry. Major macro minerals in pulp are K and Ca while K, P, and Mg for the kernel. Pili nut also contains Na, Fe, Al, Zn, Mn, Cu, Ni, and Cr. Potential antioxidant Se is below the limit of quantitation, same with toxic Pb and Cd. Bioavailability of the pulp's and the kernel's minerals in the small intestine is high for Mg (pulp: 75.8-90.3%, kernel: 54.4-61.2%) and Ca (pulp: 15.8-40.9%, kernel: 13.7-22.5%). After colonic fermentation of Pili nut kernel, appreciable amounts of Mg > Ca > Cu > Mn were still available for absorption. Fe and Zn are not detected in the large intestine due perhaps to an elevated phytic acid. Tannic acid is higher in pulp. Significant differences were observed in some established parameters that may be attributed to distinctions per variety. The Pili nut is a source of several essential minerals that are bioavailable for human nutrition.