Some Tropical Leaves as Feasible Sources of Dietary Protein

Abstract

Thirty-four species of tropical plants found in Puerto Rico were considered for possible use as high protein green leaf vegetables and as sources of leaf protein concentrate. They were tested for protein and carotenoid contents, and for toxins, including alkaloids, hydrocyanic glucosides, and oxalic acid. Six species (Manihot esculenta, Sauropus androgynous, Cnidoscolus chayamansa, Canavalia ensiformis, Lablab niger, and Vigna unguiculata)that combine high protein yields with suitable agronomic characteristics were selected for further trials and were described Green leaves are concluded to be crops of high potential for Puerto Rico and the protein-hungry tropics.