Abstract:

Orthogonal array design was applied to optimize the germination conditions of pumpkin seed from X-10 cultivar
to obtain the maximum content of linoleic acid. Meanwhile, changes in the contents of linoleic acid other major nutrients
during the germination process were examined. The optimal germination conditions that provided the maximum content of
linoleic acid (60.4 mg/g) were 28 ℃, 60 h and 5 h for temperature, germination time and soaking time, respectively. During
72 h of germination, the major nutrients fat, protein, starch, soluble sugar and VE showed a decreasing trend, while free
amino acids and ash gradually rose and only minor changes were observed for phytosterols and squalene.

Key words: pumpkin seeds, germination, nutrients, linoleic acid