Characterization and determination of physiochemical composition and heavy metals content in banana stem fluid extract

This study investigates the physicochemical composition, phytochemical constituents, and heavy metal content of banana (Musa sapientum) stem fluid extract, an underutilized agricultural by-product. Composite banana stem samples were collected from three major markets (Choba, Rumekini, and Rumuosi) in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. Standard analytical procedures were employed to determine phytochemical contents (tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, and terpenoids), functional groups using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and selected heavy metals (K, Ca, Zn, Mo) via Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) following wet digestion. The quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed steroids (10.6%), tannins (9.27%), alkaloids (7.89%), flavonoids (4.13%), and terpenoids (3.3%). FTIR spectra indicated the presence of hydroxyl, carbonyl, ester, and aromatic functional groups characteristic of phenolic and carbohydrate compounds. The concentrations (ppm) of the analyzed metals were K (10.17), Ca (4.21), Zn (14.01), and Mo (0.034). The results suggest that banana stem fluid is rich in bioactive and nutritionally relevant compounds that can serve as potential raw materials for food, pharmaceutical, and agro-industrial applications. Utilizing banana stem fluid extract can promote value addition and minimize agricultural waste, supporting sustainable bioproduct development.