Component analysis and nutrition evaluation of seeds of Torreya grandis 'Merrillii'

Key words: 
• Torreya grandis 'Merrillii' /
• seeds /
• component analysis /
• nutrition evaluation

Abstract: By component analysis of the seed samples of Torreya grandis 'Merrillii' , from many locations , the results show that the oil content of seed is 546.2 -614.7 gkg-1 .The fatty acids mainly consist of linolic acids and oleic acids .So the seed oil is easily digestible and is a super edible oil with many functions such as reducing cholesterol , promoting blood circulation and regulating endocrine system.The unsaturated fatty acids account for 79.41 % of total fatty acids .The seed kernels have 121.0 -164.3 gkg-1 protein , 17 amino acids of which seven amino acids are indispensable for health , and 19 mineral elements among which potassium (7.0 -11.3 gkg-1), calcium , phosphorus and magnesium contents are high .Heavy mental elements were not found or the contents below the safety standard , except that cadmium contents in few samples was beyond the safety standard .The pesticide residue was not found either .It is the first time to find that the seed kernel contains abundant vitamin nicotinic acid and folic acid , which can promote digesting and moistening skin , and both acids contents of the seed are higher than that of other dry or fresh fruits .[ Ch , 5 tab .18 ref .]