Seed Biochemical Composition and Yield of Four Fenugreek Genotypes

Fenugreek is a legume that has been used since ancient times to treat certain conditions. Numerous studies have examined the seed’s composition in terms of trigonelline, diosgenin and galactomannans, and their implications for nutrition and medicine. The oil content, fatty acid profile and antioxidant activity of fenugreek seeds have been less extensively studied, particularly in certain areas of the Mediterranean basin. The aim of this study was to examine the oil content and composition, as well as the antioxidant activity of the seeds, oil and meal from four genotypes originating from Algeria, France, Lebanon and Syria. The trials were conducted over two consecutive years with contrasting climatic conditions, in the open field, at the University of Tiaret (western Algeria). Climatic conditions significantly affected all studied traits. In 2023, a dry and hot year, the plants produced low grain yield and low oil content compared to 2024, a temperate year, regardless of the genotype. The fatty acid composition was dominated by polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs, between 65.5 and 68.8%). The phenolic and flavonoid contents were higher in 2023 than in 2024, resulting in greater antioxidant activity under hot and dry conditions of 2023. Genotypic differences were also statistically significant. A more varied responses in grain yield were observed for the French genotype. The highest oil content was recorded for the Algerian and Syrian genotypes. The antioxidant activities of the seed and the oil were similar and significantly higher than that of the oilcake. This activity correlated with the levels of phenols and flavonoids. The results observed in this study provide a better understanding of genotypic diversity and the impact of climatic conditions on yield and seeds quality. They also pave the way for the use of these genotypes in larger-scale breeding programs to improve specific traits.