[Biochemical and nutritional value of seeds of the lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus) in comparison with those of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)].

Composition in nutrients and antinutritional factors, digestibility and growth in rats fed diets prepared with raw and cooked beans of Ph. vulgaris, cultivar "Tacarigua", and Ph. lunatus cultivar "Tapiramo", are compared. Grains from both cultivars are similar in appearance, taste, nutritional value, and acceptability. Protein and phosphorus contents were greater in Ph. vulgaris than in Ph. lunatus seeds. The chemical score and availability of lysine were better in Ph. lunatus. Diets prepared with raw beans from Ph. lunatus resulted non toxic for the rats during a 12-day period of feeding. All rats fed with raw beans from Ph. Vulgaris died in the same period of time. Protein efficiency was better with cooked beans of Ph. lunatus. The cultivar "Tapiramo" (Ph. lunatus) is recommended for autoconsumption by small farmers.