Nutrient Status and Antioxidant Activity of the Invasive Amaranthus retroflexus L

Amaranthus retroflexus L. is widely regarded as one of the world’s most invasive weeds, often linked to significant agricultural losses due to its resilience and herbicide resistance. However, unlike other amaranth species already recognized for their health benefits, A. retroflexus remains largely overlooked as a potential nutritional and pharmacological resource. This study investigates whether this abundantly growing plant could be repurposed as sustainable food. We focused on three main questions: Can weed be transformed into a food source? Does A. retroflexus offer comparable nutritional value as its relatives? And how can it be harvested safely for human use? Mineral content, total antioxidant capacity, and polyphenol content were analyzed across different plant parts. Results revealed high levels of essential minerals, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds, suggesting strong potential as a nutrient-dense food. However, traces of heavy metals—such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic—were detected in some samples, emphasizing the need for controlled cultivation. Overall, the findings support the safe and sustainable valorization of A. retroflexus in food and pharmaceutical applications.