Biochemical Profiling of Tropical Fruit Arils: Extraction and Quantification of Pigments and Nutrients
Author: Sinitha Mariam Shaji, Renu Rajan, Justin R Nayagam*
Department of Botany, Union Christian College, Aluva, India. 683102.
Published Date: 2025-05-10
Keywords: Aril, pigments, tropical fruits, biochemical profiling, phenol, starch, protein, cacao, longan, nutmeg. Passion fruit, pomegranate.
Abstract:
The investigation was on the bio profiling of selected tropical fruits for extraction and quantification of pigments and nutrients present in them. The study revealed significant variations in the biochemical constituents and pigments of different tropical fruit arils. The total phenolic content ranged from 1300 to 2200 mg GAE per 100 g, with longan and nutmeg arils exhibiting the highest levels. Anthocyanin content varied between 0.162 and 14.82 mg, with nutmeg aril containing the highest amount. Total carotenoid levels ranged from 0.294 to 5.758 mg, with longan showing the highest concentration. Protein content varied from 0.010 to 0.022 mg, being most abundant in pomegranate, while starch content ranged from 0.0062 to 0.0093 mg, with nutmeg containing the highest amount. The findings indicated that arils are rich in anthocyanins, proteins, phenols, and starch, offering various health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunity-boosting properties. Coloured arils were found to contain higher anthocyanin levels, while white fleshy arils were richer in carotenoids. The consumption of arillated fruits was observed to serve as a natural remedy for depression, stress reduction, and fatigue relief, reinforcing their importance in a healthy diet.
