This study examined and compared the nutritional proximate composition analysis of fresh tomato fruits sold at three different markets located in Benin-City, Edo State Nigeria. The markets were Oba market, Evbuotubu market and Ikpoba market. The fruits were randomly obtained from three distinct vendors at each market. Standard analytical methods of food analysis were employed in carrying out the proximate analysis. Results obtained across the markets indicated that The moisture composition was at its peak and ranged from 92.73±0.42 to 93.50±1.14, the carbohydrate composition ranged from 2.72±0.45 to 3.62±0.94, the crude fibre composition ranged from 1.24±0.24 to 1.69±0.35, the protein content ranged from 0.91±0.21 to 1.00±0.14, the fat composition ranged from 0.91±0.08 to 0.94±0.05 and the ash content ranged from 0.23±0.07 to 0.26±0.05. Results from the analysis of variance test used in comparing the obtained data results revealed that the nutritional proximate composition analysis of tomato fruits sold in 3 different markets located in Benin City, Nigeria, showed no significant differences (p > 0.05)

Tomato fruit, Benin-city, vegetable, proximate analytical composition, nutritional composition, level of significance

This research work determined and compared the proximate nutritional composition analysis of freshly harvested red tomato fruits marketed in Benin City, Nigeria. A high moisture content that ranged from 92.73±0.42 to 93.50±1.14 was indicated. The average nutrient composition in the absence of moisture was determined to decrease in the following order: carbohydrate > fibre > protein > fat > ash. These tomato fruits were discovered to be rich in carbohydrates, fibre and protein if the moisture content is eliminated. Carbohydrates serve as the primary energy source for all cells in the body, including those of the central nervous system, while proteins contribute to the structure of bones, muscles, and skin. Dietary fiber aids in lowering body cholesterol levels, subsequently reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This work also investigated significant variations in the proximate nutritional composition of tomatoes sold in different markets within the city. Results from the ANOVA test used in comparing the results revealed the nutritional proximate analysis of tomato fruits sold in 3 different markets in Benin City, Nigeria, showed no significant differences (p > 0.05)

I.C. Onuguh, A.T. Imuetinya, A.Y. Isaac, R.I. Nnadozie and J.U. Ozor (2025). Comparative Proximate Analysis of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Fruits Sold in Markets in Benin City, Nigeria. International Journal on Emerging Technologies, 16(1): 121–125.