Melons such as muskmelon (Cucumis melo) and watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) are important nutritional crops. Whilst most consume the soft and sweet flesh they provide, nutritionally melons have interesting properties in their seeds. As with other foods, the seeds of melons are a rich source of energy and this derives mainly from fatty acids and other lipids. In particular, melon seeds are high in omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid), and monounsaturated fatty acids such as omega-9 (oleic acid). Protein and carbohydrate are present but provide less energy compared to fat. Melons also have a very high water content. Minerals are also in high concentrations in melon seeds with minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium being particularly high compared to other minerals. Melon seeds are also high in antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolics, and also contain a number of other important phytochemical groups including alkaloids, saponins and other secondary metabolites.
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