Hodgsonia macrocarpa–A non-conventional edible fat and protein source
Abstract
Among large number of cucurbits found in North-East India, the roasted seed kernels of Hodgsonia macrocarpa (Bl.) Cogn. has been a valuable source of fat (62.71 per cent) and protein (31.21 per cent) to the tribals. The quality of oil in respect of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids is comparable to the palm oil. The identification of staminate and pistillate plants at seedling stage in order to establish populations in the right proportion is the major obstacle in its commercialisation. Further research efforts on this cucurbit would be required.
