摘要：Jatropha is a multipurpose genus rich in oil that can be used to manufacture fuel, candles, soap, cosmetic and drugs. Defatted kernel meal of Jatropha non-toxic species can also be used as animal feed because of its protein high content. Three Jatropha species, J.cinerea, J.curcas and J.platyphylla grown in Northwest of México were evaluated for seed, oil and defatted meal characteristics. Seed characteristics, oil yield and fatty acid composition differed significantly among the genus with minimal variation in thermal oil characteristics. Jatropha oil yield (55-62%) was higher than other commercial oilseeds as soya and rapeseed. J. cinerea and J.platyphylla oils and their defatted meals exhibited similar characteristics and profiles. The levels of all essential amino acids, except lysine, were higher than the recommended for a child of 2-5 years old. Amino acid composition of J.curcas was superior to those of J.cinerea and J.platyphylla and can therefore be a potential alternative as an animal/human food for soybean meal.
