Progress in studies on nutritional value of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. seeds

Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) in the family Nelumbonaceae is an aquatic eudicot with wide global distribution. It has a very long history of cultivation, especially in South and East Asia, and almost every tissue can be used as food or medicine. In particular, lotus seeds can be consumed either freshly or as processed food. These seeds contain abundant nutrients, including starch, proteins, polysaccharides, amino acids, mineral elements, polyphenols, and alkaloids, which makes them suitable for both nutritional and medicinal use. Many studies have focused on the development and nutritional values of these seeds. Here, we summarize the latest knowledge on the nutritional composition, function, and processing technology of lotus seeds. We also discuss the potential uses and limitations of these seeds. This review should provide some insights into the breeding and industrialization of N. nucifera seeds.