Nutritional and regional assessment of wild anardana (Punica granatum L.) genotypes from the Pir Panjal range with implications for genetic resource utilization

Abstract Anardana, the dried arils of Punica granatum L., possesses notable culinary, nutraceutical, and medicinal value due to its richness in bioactive compounds. However, wild populations from the Himalayan belts remain largely unexplored. This study provides the first comprehensive nutritional and phytochemical assessment of 50 wild Anardana genotypes collected from Ramban, Poonch, and Rajouri districts of the Pir Panjal range, Jammu region. Key quality attributes, including sugars, acidity, phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, ascorbic acid, crude protein, fiber, and antioxidant activity, were evaluated alongside essential minerals such as Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn. Considerable variation was observed among genotypes and regions, reflecting both genetic and ecological influences. Statistical analyses revealed distinct regional profiles-Ramban genotypes were rich in phenolics and antioxidants, Rajouri accessions showed higher mineral contents, while Poonch genotypes had elevated sugars and ascorbic acid. The findings highlight several nutritionally superior genotypes and key traits valuable for selection and utilization in conservation, nutraceutical development, and breeding programs targeting wild P. granatum germplasm.