Proximate and Anti-Nutritional Analyses of Three Varieties (TGX1987-10F, TGX2018-1E, TGX2024-3E) of Soybeans (Glycine Max (L.) Merrill.)

Soybean is an important legume crop and a major source of nutrients in Nigeria. However, there is a need to compare some breeding lines for their nutritional qualities. This study evaluated the nutritional qualities of three soybean varieties (TGX1987-10F, TGX2018-1E, TGX2024-3E) as part of breeding lines undergoing genetic improvement at the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Nigeria. The composition of soybeans was found to be dominated by carbohydrates (34.4%), followed by protein (24.44%), lipid (27.5%), moisture (6.2%), ash (4.5%), and fiber (3.3%). Among the varieties, TGX1987-10F exhibited the highest levels of carbohydrate, protein, and fiber. Conversely, TGX2024-3E displayed the highest moisture, ash, and lipid contents. TGX2018-1E occupied an intermediate position between the two varieties in terms of proximate values. There were no significant differences in the levels of anti-nutrients (cyanide and oxalate) among the varieties. However, phytic acid content varied significantly, with TGX2024-3E having the lowest amount and TGX1987-10F having the highest. Phytic acid showed a negative correlation with all nutrients except carbohydrate. These findings suggest that TGX1987-10F is the variety with the highest overall nutritional value, but it also has the highest level of phytic acid. Breeders should aim to improve the nutritional quality of soybean while also reducing anti-nutrients. This information is important for breeders and farmers who are working to ensure food abundance and quality.