This study focuses on the analysis of nutritional components
of fresh Lotus seeds during different stages of maturity. We
observed that the nutrient contents varied significantly between
the different sample groups and was positively correlated with
seed maturity. In fresh Lotus seeds, the starch content is the
highest of all the nutrients. Taking nutrition and healthcare
into consideration, Lotus seeds harvested during the withered
ripe stage could be used as a good source of raw material for
high-protein, high dietary fiber healthcare foods. Fresh Lotus
seeds contain high levels of calcium, potassium, sodium,
magnesium and phosphorus, whilst containing very little
selenium. The content of all the minerals measured increases
as the seed matures with the exception of sodium. Amino
acids in fresh Lotus seeds are rich in variety, but unequal in
content, thus the protein present in Lotus seeds is partially
complete. The amino acid contents in fresh Lotus seeds during
the four maturity stages ranged from 2.19% to 13.08% with
methionine being the first limiting amino acid in Lotus seeds.