Proximate, fatty acid and sterol compositions of the oil were determined to
ascertain the general characteristics of the seed and seed oil of Geoffroe
a decorticans (Leguminosae) originating from central area of Argentina. Pro
teins represented 21.6% (w/w) of the seed. Seed oil was extracted with n-he
xane, yielding 47.2% (w/w). The saponification and iodine values indicated
that the oil could be classified among the peanut group of oils. These fact
s were supported by the detailed far, acid composition determined by capill
ary gas chromatography. The ratio of total unsaturated to total saturated f
atty acids in the oil was 5.94, with oleic acid being the dominant fatty ac
id (53.7%). The sterol composition showed higher percentages of beta -sitos
terol and stigmasterol. The results obtained indicated that, with their att
ractive properties, G. decorticans is a good candidate for further studies
to evaluate their future commercial prospect.