Characterization of Total and Individual Sterols in Canola Sprouts

In this study, the contents of total and individual phytosterols in sprouts made from seeds of seven canola ( Brassica napus L.) lines (Acropolis, Banjo, Jetton, KS‐7740, KSM3‐1‐124, Mussette and Virginia), grown at three locations in Virginia (Orange, Petersburg and Suffolk), were determined. Canola sprouts contained, on an average, 36.3 g sterols in 100 g of unsaponifiable matter (UNSAP), 10.7 mg sterols in 1 g of oil and 2.4 mg sterols in 1 g of dry sprouts. The contents of individual phytosterols (μg per g of oil) in canola sprouts were 1,162 brassicasterol, 3,799 campesterol, 34 stigmasterol, 5,359 β‐sitosterol, 201 Δ 5 ‐avenasterol and 97 Δ 7 ‐stigmastenol. Canola lines had significant effects on the contents of oil, brassicasterol and campesterol. Locations had significant effects on the oil, UNSAP, total sterols, brassicasterol, stigmasterol and β‐sitosterol. The oil content in canola sprouts was positively correlated with total sterols and Δ 5 ‐avenasterol, whereas oil content was negatively correlated with brassicasterol content. In general, the contents of campesterol and β‐sitosterol increased with an increase in total sterol content. The concentrations of sterols were in the following decreasing order: β‐sitosterol > campesterol > brassicasterol > Δ 5 ‐avenasterol > Δ 7 ‐stigmastenol > stigmasterol. These results indicate that canola sprouts may have the potential as a natural source of dietary sterols and might be desirable for human nutrition.