DESENVOLVIMENTO E AVALIAÇÃO DE NÉCTARES MISTOS À BASE DE FRUTAS TROPICAIS

Abstract

Brazil is one of the largest fruit producers in the world. However, due to high perishability, the fruits enter the senescence phase very quickly. A good way of preserving these fruits is consumption in the form of pulp, juices and nectars. In addition, research shows an increase in the consumption of non-alcoholic beverages, in addition to the demand for nutritious and functional foods. The objective of this work was to develop different formulations of mixed nectars based on tropical fruits and to evaluate their physicochemical characteristics and market acceptance research. The fruits were obtained in the local market of João Pessoa, Paraíba. Ten nectar formulations were developed with three replications, having the cajá as a base fruit with the addition of passion fruit, acerola or lemon. The nectars were analyzed for the physicochemical characteristics of pH, acidity, soluble solids, SS/AT ratio, ascorbic acid, reducing sugars and total sugars. In addition, a survey was also carried out to verify the acceptability of a new product in the market and its consumption. According to the results, the nectars presented physicochemical characteristics consistent with Brazilian legislation. It was also verified that all the formulations made are suitable for consumption, with emphasis on the formulation of cajá and acerola, which presented a high amount of vitamin C and a good ratio of soluble solids and titratable acidity. It can be concluded that the formulation of nectar made with cajá and acerola was the one that presented the best nutritional characteristics, the mixture of the fruits increased the vitamin C content in the nectar, leaving the drink with great nutritional potential.