COMPOSIÇÃO FÍSICA E FÍSICO-QUÍMICA DE FRUTOS DA Terminalia catappa Linn VARIEDADES ROXA E AMARELA E DE SUAS AMÊNDOAS

Abstract

Terminalia catappa Linn (T. catappa L) was introduced in Brazil as an ornamental tree to provide shade in coastal regions. The tree produces fruit and its seed is consists of almonds, not usually consumed in the country and are wasted as a whole. This study aimed to perform the physical and physicochemical characterization of T. catappa L. purple and yellow varieties fruits as well as the composition of its almonds. The fruits were randomly obtained from trees in the city of João Pessoa, Paraíba, and were evaluated to their morphological characteristics. The pulp and peel were submitted to physical tests regarding color, water activity (Aw), pH and physicochemical analyses of titratable acidity, moisture, ash, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and tannin content. The almonds were submitted to physical tests for Aw and pH and physicochemical tests for titratable acidity, moisture, ash, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. The results indicated that two varieties of chestnut tree fruits are composed of high moisture, acidic pH, and low protein and lipid content. There was a statistically significant difference between varieties, the yellow one having higher acidity and tannin content than the purple variety. According to the results obtained, almonds present a higher percentage of proteins in their composition, followed by lipids and carbohydrates and significant mineral content. The composition of the T.catappa almond is similar to the other almonds widely consumed in the country, such as cashew nuts and Brazil nuts. It can be concluded that both T. catappa L. fruits have physical and physicochemical characteristics for technological use in the development of new products, especially in the production of beverages, considering their carbohydrate content, acidity and tannin content. Almonds have desirable characteristics for vegetable oils production, direct consumption and the development of new products.