Some compositional characteristics of capers (Capparis spp.) seed and oil

Capparis spinosa L. var. spinosa and Capparis ovate Desf. var. canescens seeds were evaluated for weight, sizes, moisture, ash, crude protein, crude oil, energy and crude fiber. The relative density, refractive index, free fatty acids, peroxide value, iodine value, saponification value, unsaponifiables and wax were determined in the seed oils. The main fatty acids identified by gas chromatography were palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids. The seeds were rich in protein, oil, and fiber and showed similar composition between then with a high content in unsaturated fatty acids, suggesting that they may be valuable for food uses.