Comparative characteristics of the amino acid composition in amaranth accessions from the VIR Collection

The development of products that fully meet the criteria for a healthy diet is one of the main trends in nutrition quality improvement worldwide. Amaranth, a leader in protein quality, has significant potential. A comparative study of the protein complex in leaf biomass has been conducted for the first time for Amaranthus spp. grown for various uses. The aim of the study was to analyze the characteristics of the amino acid composition and identify the relationships among its components in the amaranth leaf biomass. For this purpose, gas-liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was employed. Based on the data of 42 amaranth accessions, the most constant biochemical indicators were identified. Amino acid composition in amaranth accessions, represented by 18 amino acids, had the closest relationship with the content of ascorbic acid and dry matter. The absence of a significant association of lysine and proline with other amino acids was revealed. The amino acid profile had a strong positive relationship with most components, but it was not balanced in composition. Weedy amaranth species are of interest for practical utilization due to their high content of phenolic compounds and lysine. Grain amaranth species were better balanced in amino acids and generally showed the highest protein levels. These are recommended as a source of highly balanced amino acid composition.