Evaluation of selected nutritional factors in <em>Aposeris foetida</em> (L.) Less. during the harvesting period

Abstract

Aposeris foetida (L.) Less. is a plant native to central European forests. In Slovenia it is known as an early spring wild food. Considering the total absence of studies of the leaves of Aposeris regarding its use as food, the present study was made to investigate its nutritional value concerning important vitamins and antioxidants. Foliar contents of ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, α-carotene, β-carotene, neoxanthin, violaxanthin, antheraxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, and chlorophyll in young edible plants during the harvesting period are reported. Comparison of Aposeris with supermarket lettuce analysed in our study and with numerous cultivated and wild edible plants from other studies showed that Aposeris is one of the best sources of ascorbic acid, tocopherol and carotenoids. The results of our study justify its use in the early spring wild food cuisine and may stimulate consumption of this nutritious plant.