Analysis of major and trace elements in teff (Eragrostis tef)

Abstract

Teff (Eragrostis tef) is one of the principal cereals grown in Ethiopia. It is a gluten free grain and can be suitable for use in the diet of patients with celiac disease. Mineral content of teff is poorly characterized and considerable variations in the concentration of elements such as iron, magnesium, and calcium have been reported. Therefore, in an effort to determine major and trace elements content of E. tef, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used. In this study, 44 major and trace elements were detected and quantified in white and red teff varieties. The most abundant elements were K, P, Ca, Mg, Na, B, Al, and Fe. Trace amounts of Er, Eu, and Sb were also detected. Keywords: Eragrostis tef, Trace elements, ICP-MS