Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Anti-Nutritional Factor in Cassava
Anti nutritional factor present in tapoica/cassava is:
- Saponin
- Linamarin — Correct Answer
- Dhurrin
- Glucosinolate
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Linamarin
Linamarin is the cyanogenic glycoside (anti-nutritional factor) found in Cassava (Tapioca — Manihot esculenta) and linseed. When plant cells are disrupted (chewing, processing), linamarin is hydrolyzed by the enzyme linamarase to release HCN (hydrogen cyanide), which causes potentially fatal cyanide poisoning.
Cyanogenic Glycosides — Source and Compound
| Source Plant | Cyanogenic Glycoside | HCN Released |
|---|---|---|
| Cassava (Tapioca), Linseed | Linamarin | Yes |
| Jowar (Sorghum), Sudan grass | Dhurrin | Yes |
| Bitter almond | Amygdalin | Yes |
Treatment of Cyanide Poisoning
- NaNO₂ (Sodium Nitrite) + Sodium Thiosulphate — given IV.
- NaNO₂ → converts haemoglobin to methaemoglobin → methaemoglobin competes with cytochrome for CN⁻.
- Sodium thiosulphate → converts CN⁻ to thiocyanate (less toxic) → excreted in urine.
- Cassava processing (soaking, cooking, fermentation) reduces linamarin content.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Saponin → from Lucerne/Alfalfa → causes bloat; not in cassava.
- Dhurrin → cyanogenic glycoside in Sorghum/Jowar; not cassava.
- Glucosinolate → from Brassica plants → causes goitre; not in cassava.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
