introduction: Beta vulgaris L. (beetroot) is valued for its nutrient diversity, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and nitrates. Dietary nitrates are associated with various health benefits. This study aimed to enrich the nitrate content in beetroot and evaluate its nutrient composition. Methods:: Nitrate-enriched beetroot concentrate powder was prepared and analyzed. Nutrient composition was determined using advanced techniques, including inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Proximate analyses were also performed to assess macronutrient and energy content. results: The concentrate exhibited 3.0 g/100 g moisture and 5.7 g/100 g ash. ICP-MS revealed minerals and trace elements, including iron, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, and selenium (6 ng-36.27 g/kg). Micronutrient profiling identified choline, betaine, and vitamins B3, B9, and B12, ranging from 7 μg/100 g to 1,464.16 mg/kg. Vitamins C, B1, B2, B5, B6, and A were below quantification limits. Macronutrient analysis showed 83.8 g/100 g carbohydrates, 7.4 g/100 g protein, 0.1 g/100 g fat, and an energy value of 365.7 kcal/100 g. Sucrose constituted 2.96% of total carbohydrates. discussion: The enriched beetroot concentrate retained a nutrient profile comparable to nonenriched forms. The presence of essential minerals and B vitamins highlights its potential as a functional food ingredient. Lack of detectable levels for some vitamins suggests stability or extraction- related limitations. conclusion: Nitrate enrichment in beetroot does not substantially alter its nutrient composition. The product may serve as a valuable nutritional supplement with enhanced functional properties.
Shanmugham et al. (Fri,) studied this question.