Chemical Composition and Nutritional Value of Edible Moroccan Truffles

Abstract

Background and objectives: Truffles have a unique nutritional profile and are known to play an important role in terrestrial ecosystems. Mediterranean countries, including Morocco, are the location of an abundant harvest of truffles. This study investigated the chemical composition and the nutritional value of edible Moroccan truffles. Materials and methods: We studied the nutritional profile, and we performed a phytochemical screening of Tirmania pinoyi, Terfezia claveryi, Terfezia oligosperma, Terfezia rosea, and Terfezia arenaria collected from different areas from Morocco. Results and conclusions: The results showed that the truffles that we analyzed are a good source of carbohydrates, lipids and dietary fibers. The phytochemical screening that we performed afterwards revealed that these Moroccan truffles contain numerous secondary metabolites such as saponins, alkaloids, sterols, coumarins, and tannins. These results demonstrate the nutritional value of these truffles that can support a healthy and well-balanced diet. The secondary metabolites that we detected in our samples can make an important pharmacological contribution that could be the subject of future investigations for therapeutic purposes.