Pantnagar Journal of Research

Abstract

Black soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merill) is widely recognized for its rich nutritional composition, antioxidant properties, and potential role in the management of metabolic disorders. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the nutritional and functional characteristics of black soybean by comparing whole seeds, dehusked cotyledons, and husk fractions. Proximate composition, mineral content, dietary fibre, antioxidant activity and antinutritional factors were analysed using standard analytical methods, and the glycaemic index of whole and dehusked fractions was determined. The results revealed that dehusked cotyledons contained the highest protein content (36.94 g/100 g) and were rich in essential minerals, whereas the husk fraction exhibited the highest dietary fibre content (68.75 g/100 g) along with greater antioxidant activity. Antinutritional factors such as phytic acid and tannins were predominantly present in the husk fraction but remained within safe limits. Both whole and dehusked fractions showed low glycaemic index values (17.69±0.52 and 23.3±0.68, respectively). The findings indicated that different fractions of black soybean possess significant nutritional potential, and the underutilised husk can be effectively utilised in the development of fibre rich functional foods.