Essential elements, oil and protein contents of sunflower hybrids grown in Brazil

Abstract In this research the mineral elements and the oil and protein contents of thirteen sunflower hybrids grown in Brazil, were studied. In addition, the possibility of jointly obtaining products with high productivity and high oil and protein contents was evaluated. The research showed high achene productivity, exceeding the national average, mainly by the hybrids BRS G44, SYN 045 and M 734. It should be taken into account that some hybrids, such as NTC 90, despite their high productivity, are not suitable for production when the purpose is to obtain oil and protein meal. The hybrid BRS G46 presented high oil and protein contents. On the other hand, SYN 065 was the least productive (808.10 kg ha-1) and, despite the fact that this hybrid showed an above average oil content, it showed the lowest protein content of the grains analysed. In general, the samples analysed had higher concentrations of K, Mg, S, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cr, Ni and Cu, whereas the mineral contents of Mo, Co and Se were present at lower levels. The hybrid BRS G45 indicated the presence of larger amounts of elements at higher concentrations, such as: Mg, S, Cr, Fe, Ni, Cu and Zn, followed by BRS G44, which showed higher contents of Mg, Cr, Mn, Fe and Ni. The characterization of the Brazilian hybrids in this study allowed for their differentiation for specific purposes and the possibility of oil production combinations, producing oils with characteristics that make them apt for alternative uses of their by-products (such as the hybrid BRS G46), this being a great opportunity to increase the farm income.