ABSTRACT
DISCOVERY of phytate has its beginning in 1855-1856 when Hartig isolatedsmall particles, nonstarch grains, from several plant seeds. He considered these small particles to be a source of essential reserve nutrients for seed germination and plant growth [1]. Later, in 1872, Pfeffer [2] further characterized the grains isolated by Hartig into three groups: crystals of calcium oxalate, a protein substance, and a compound that gave no reaction when tested for protein, fat, or inorganic salts. The third group was found in all of the 100 different seeds that he examined. Pfeffer [2] characterized the third group as having rounded surfaces, assuming spheroidal shapes, and frequently twining so as to present a convoluted appearance. He found that the third group was free of nitrogen but contained calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. He named this group of grains “globoids.” Organic matter was also noted in the globoids, and the suggestion was made that the substance was a phosphate combined with a carbohydrate. Later studies by Palladin [3] and Schulze and Winterstein [4] confirmed the presence and chemical composition of globoid particles in Indian mustard (Sinapis niger). Subsequently, Schulze and Winterstein [4] suggested “inosite-phosphoric acid” as the proper name for the “globoid,” because globoid hydrolysis could yield inosite and phosphoric acid.
