Characterization and prediction by near-infrared reflectance of mineral composition of rocket (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa and Eruca vesicaria subsp. vesicaria).

Minerals are essential for human nutrition and must be obtained from our diet. Crucifer vegetables are a good source of these nutrients. Our objectives were to determine the genetic variability for mineral content and to evaluate the use of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) for prediction of ashes and minerals among and within the rocket species Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa and vesicaria. The minerals studied were iron (Fe), copper (Cu), sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn).