Brazilian Peach (Prunus Persica) and Passion Fruit (Passiflora Edulis) Nectars: Good Source of Vitamin C and Anthocyanins?

Abstract

Peach and passion fruit nectars are well accepted by consumers and promise important sources of bioactive compounds. In this study it was analyzed vitamin C; anthocyanins; pH; total soluble solids; titratable acidity; total carbohydrates and Ratio (Ratio of total solids to citric acid) in different brands of peach and passion fruit nectar and results were compared to the Brazilian Legislation. Values of Vitamin C, anthocyanins, pH, soluble solids, titratable acidity, and total carbohydrates were analyzed. Results showed many variations in acidity, total soluble solids, carbohydrates and Ratio of nectars of the different brands. Peach and passion fruit nectars marketed in Brazil are good alternatives of ingesting vitamin C as all brands have more than 30% of the recommended daily intake, however, most brands possesses values much higher than stated on the labeling. For anthocyanins values, although there are patterns in Brazilian law, it can be seen from the results that there is great variation between the brands and some have very low values, indicating that the incorporation of this parameter on the labeling would be important once more aware and concerned consumers could choose the brand they thought most appropriate for their need. In conclusion it is possible to say the peach and passion fruit nectars marketed in Brazil are good alternatives of ingesting vitamin C as all brands have more than 30% of the recommended daily intake indicating they are considered "rich in vitamin C". Although, in the other hand, brands of both flavors are found in amounts higher than stated on the labeling. Values of soluble solids, acidity in citric acid and total carbohydrates are according Brazilian Legislation. Values of Ratio indicate that the nectars analyzed are adequate according to acceptability parameters.

Mixed Nectar of Cupuassu (<i>Theobroma</i><i> grandiflorum</i>) and Green Tea and the Effect of Preservatives and Storage on Nutritional and Sensorial Characteristics

“…The pH did not change significantly (p>0.05) among treatments ( Table 1). This pH is essential for the nectars because values higher than 4.5 favors the Clostridium botulinum growth [2]. Herein, all the samples studied had pH below of this value.…”

“…The fruit juices play essential roles in human health, being a crucial part of nutrition. Its consumption is associated with the reduced mortality risk since that contain high amounts of nutrients essential, phytochemicals, fibers and other bioactive compounds that promote health benefits [1,2].…”