Effect of seed's geographical origin on cactus oil physico-chemical characteristics, oxidative stability, and antioxidant activity

The aim of this study was the valorisation of cactus (or prickly pear) seeds growing in six different regions of Morocco. Moisture, proteins, lipids profile, total polyphenols content, oxidative stability and antioxidant activity of cactus were investigated. The Folin-Ciocalteu test highlighted the abundant presence of phenolic compounds (165 to 225 mg EAG/100 g of extract) and a significant antioxidant capacity against DPPH free radicals. The seeds contained protein (7–9.25%) and lipids (2.7–5%). Cactus oil quality indices such as acidity and peroxide value were below 1.2% and 10 mEq.O2/kg, respectively. GC analysis revealed that linoleic and oleic acid percentages ranged from 57.1 to 63.8%, and 13.5 to 18.7%, respectively. Cactus seed oil was rich in tocopherols (500–680 mg/kg) and phytosterols (8000–11,100 mg/kg) with a predominance of γ-tocopherols and β-sitosterol. Triacylglycerols, fatty acids and sterols composition showed small variation depending on the geographical origin, while the individual tocopherol profile was significantly influenced.