Impact of the Soil and Climatic Characteristics of Growing Localities on the Nutritional Qualities and Phytochemical Constituents of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Seeds in Côte d’Ivoire

Aims: This study was conducted to assess the influence of soil and climate conditions on the nutritional properties and phytochemical constituents of sesame accessions in three locations in Côte d’Ivoire. Study Design: The study is based on a comparative assessment of the biochemical characteristics of sesame accessions grown under different soil and climate conditions. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in three locations in Côte d’Ivoire (Diawala, Korhogo, and Touba), using samples from a multi-site agronomic trial. Methodology: Seeds from eight productive and stable sesame accessions were selected from among twenty-two accessions studied in a multi-location agronomic trial. Soil samples were collected at each location for analysis, and climate data from the various sites were recorded. The biochemical evaluation focused on dry matter, macronutrients, micronutrients, and phytochemicals. Univariate (ANOVA) and multivariate (PCA, AHC) analyses were performed using R software to identify relationships between biochemical parameters and growing conditions. Results: The results revealed significant variability in the nutritional composition of sesame seeds across different locations. The seeds were dominated by lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, as well as calcium, potassium, and lignin. Principal component analysis (PCA) and ascending hierarchical classification (AHC) identified three distinct groups of accessions based on their biochemical compositions. Seeds from Diawala were richer in energy-providing nutrients and antioxidants. Those from Korhogo were characterized by a higher content of minerals and lignin, while those from Touba were characterized by a higher content of proteins and functional compounds. Conclusion: These results highlight the importance of biochemical variability for the selection and nutritional enhancement of sesame accessions adapted to the agroclimatic conditions of Côte d’Ivoire.