Protein and Amino Acid Profiles in Edible Bird’s Nest from South and East Coast Malaysia.

Wan Syahidah H., Normah. M and Tony A

This study was conducted to determine and compare the protein content and amino acid profile of edible bird’s nest (EBN) obtained from South and East Coast of Malaysia. A total of 39 unprocessed EBN samples from South (Johor) and East Coast (Kelantan) were collected for this study. The samples were obtained from different parts of Johor and Kelantan. In this study, protein was analysed using Kjedahl method while amino acid analysis was performed as described in Waters AccQ Tag Note with slight modifications using Waters HPLC Systems with fluorescence detector. Protein analysis indicated that the average protein content of unprocessed EBN from Kelantan and Johor were 55.01% and 54.27% respectively. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in protein content between unprocessed EBN from both states. The amino acids content of unprocessed EBN comprised of essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids. The average of total essential amino acids in EBN from Kelantan and Johor were 23% and 20% respectively with arginines the major essential amino acids from both states. Serine was found the major non-essential amino acids in EBN amounting to 4.3-7.2%. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between essential amino acids and non essential amino acids in unprocessed EBN from Kelantan and Johor. In conclusion, EBN was high in protein and non essential amino acid that are imponant in cell’s energy production.