Physicochemical Characteristics, Phenolic Profile, Mineral and Carbohydrate Contents of Two Truffle Species

Abstract

The aim of this study was an investigation on chemical composition including phenolic profile, mineral and carbohydrate content of the Terfezia claveryi (black truffle) and Tirmania nivea (white truffle). The identification of carbohydrates and individual phenolic compounds was performed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Total protein was determined by Kjeldahl method. Our research showed that Tirmania nivea had higher contents of protein than Terfezia claveryi. Among studied carbohydrates, glucose was detected at higher levels in both truffles. The mineral analysis showed that potassium and iron concentrations were found at high levels compared with other minerals. Higher contents of the examined phenolic compounds were determined in extracts of Terfezia claveryi compared to those of Tirmania nivea. Overall, these results support further examination of biochemical characteristics and verification of nutritional value of both the truffles.