Effect of germination on antinutritional factors, total, and extractable minerals of high and low phytate corn (Zea mays L.) genotypes

Two corn genotypes, Var-113 (high phytate) and TL-98B-6225-9×TL617 (low phytate) were germinated for 6 days. The germinated seeds were dried and milled. Phytic acid, polyphenols, and hydrochloric acid (HCl) extractable minerals were determined at intervals of two days of germination. Phytic acid decreased significantly (P ⩽ 0.05) with a concomitant increase in HCl extractable minerals, while polyphenol contents increased significantly (P ⩽ 0.05) with an increase in germination time. However, the major mineral content was initially decreased and then increased while that of trace minerals was increased with germination time. After 6 days of germination, the high phytate sample (Var-113) exhibited higher extractable calcium compared to the other genotype, whereas the low phytate sample (TL-98B-6225-9×TL617) showed higher extractable phosphorus. Iron extractability was higher for the low phytate samples, while that of magnesium was higher for the high phytate sample. High correlation between lower phytate and higher extractable minerals was noted as a function of longer germination time. Nevertheless, no correlation was observed between polyphenol content and mineral extractability level.