Comparison of Egyptian and Saudi Mesembryanthemum forskalii Hochst. ex Boiss. as an unconventional alternative protein of wheat and barley

Abstract

Mesembryanthemum forskalii, commonly called Forskal Fig-marigold, is a wild plant, grown naturally in Saudi and Egyptian deserts and in many countries around the world. However, nutrition value, especially its protein content, has not been studied until now. Here, we explored this plant as a new source of protein, particularly in drought or salted lands that can't be cultivated with grains and to meet the increasing of human requirements for protein. Analysis of amino acids contents showed seven essential amino acids in Egyptian and Saudi M. forskalii. Moreover, both M. forskalii have some amino acids their concentrations higher than that of wheat and barley. In addition, SDS-PAGE protein results revealed the appearance of 7 monomorphic bands in all samples; two bands appeared only in M. forskalii and not found in wheat or barley. HDN protein profile exhibited Rubisco band in all samples. The CDDP analysis indicated that M. forskalii has significant similarity with wheat or barley and share some genes with them. The observations suggest M. forskalii to be a potential new source of protein. It has many important amino acids and a valuable content of protein and can be combined or substituted with flour from cereals to enrich the diets of Saharan communities.