Analysis of Nutritional Traits: Natural Variation within 90 Diverse Faba Bean (<i>Vicia faba</i>) Genotypes and Daily Value Contribution

Abstract

Identifying food plant germplasm with superior seed nutritional values is important in helping alleviate nutrient mineral deficiencies. Faba bean (Vicia faba), a highly nutritious, protein-rich legume, is an important crop plant grown in the U.S. and globally. Therefore, the goals of this study were to quantify the levels of K, P, Ca, Mg, S, Zn, Fe, Cu, B, and Mn in the seeds of 90 faba bean genotypes. Additionally, we evaluated percent daily values (%DV) based on U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommendations. Macro- and micronutrient concentrations varied among faba bean genotypes. Seed Zn was positively correlated with seed P and Cu contents. Moreover, the Mn level was greater in faba beans with the highest concentrations of P, S, and Ca. The results of the present study demonstrate that there is significant variation in seed mineral nutrients among faba beans. We identified a set of faba beans with superior nutrient composition that could be potentially useful in genetic improvement studies and in addressing global future food security challenges. These findings will help global food security by achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Two, which is to achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Keywords

• broad beans
• field beans
• percent daily value
• nutrient-rich
• value-added
• %DV