Proximate and Microbial Evaluation of African Locust Bean (parkia Biglobosa Jacq.) Obtained from Five Markets in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

African locust bean seeds, or Parkia biglobosa, are valuable both economically and nutritionally.
This plant is indigenous to Nigeria and other African nations, and it has both ecological and
socioeconomic uses. The proximate and microbiological diversity of Parkia biglobosa seeds is
revealed by this investigation. Five distinct samples were collected from five Benin City markets
and brought to the lab for examination. It is a feasible food source for energy due to its high
carbohydrate content, which ranges from 49.87% to 53.11%. There was a range of 17.08% to
12.08% for crude protein, 3.01% to 1.08% for crude fiber, and 1.75% to 5.55% for crude fat. If
properly protected against microbiological activities, the seeds may have an excellent storage life
due to their low moisture content of 15.07% to 18.09%. The bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus,
Pseudomonas spp., and Micrococcus spp.) and fungi (Aspergillus niger, Mucor spp., and
Penicillium chrysogenum) that were present may have contributed to the samples' fermentation,
strong odor, and spoiling. The handling and storage of locust bean seed samples that have been
removed from their respective locations are called into question by the presence of these
microorganisms. P. biglobosa is a very useful crop that some people appreciate for its umami
flavor and fragrant aroma in meals. According to this study, locust bean seeds have the potential
to be a very nutrient-dense and carbon-rich food. Processes for production and packaging should
be improved. The dinner P. biglobosa is highly recommended.