No abstract

No abstract

Winter squash cv 'Cehualca' (Cucurbita moschata Duchense) is a seasonal crop that has been used as food and animal feed. The objective of the present study was to characterize physical, chemical and physicochemical properties of the winter squash cv 'Cehualca' . Morphological, chemical and physicochemical analyses were performed, including fiber, carotenoids, phenolic and mineral contents in the winter squash. The morphological analysis showed that the squash 'Cehualca' did not have a homogeneous morphology. Data about their physical and physicochemical characteristics showed large variability. Also, high content of carotenoids and dietary fiber was observed in squash. The oil and total phenolic content was low in comparison with other fruits. The mineral content exceeded the values recommended to meet the nutritional needs of consumers, except for sodium (both in pulp and shell), potassium and magnesium in the shell.

The effects of calcium hydroxide and screw speed on expansion, pasting, crystallinity, torque, water absorption, and solubility indices upon extruded blue maize meal products were studied, using a central composite experimental design. All the characteristics measured presented a significant quadratic regression model, indicating relationship between the responses and extrusion conditions. It was found that the expansion, crystallinity, torque, water absorption, and solubility indices decreased and the Rapid Viscosity Analyzer's (RVA) pasting characteristics increased with the increase of calcium hydroxide concentrations. The Pearson correlation indicated that the responses presented strong correlation (r > 0.7, p < 0.01) between them. Extruded products with physical appearance and expansion similar to the control were found at concentrations lower than 0.1% of calcium hydroxide.