Physico-chemical and sensory properties of formulated syrup from black plum (Vitex doniana) fruit

The fresh ripe fruit pulp and syrup, produced using the open pan evaporator, ofVitex doniana were analysed physico-chemically. Results show that the edible pulp of the ripe fruit is fairly rich in vitamin C (18.1 mg/100 ml) but acidic (pH 4.38) and poor in protein (0.82%) and oil (0.56%). The syrup yielded a DE value of 52, total dissolved solids content of 67° Brix and a refractive index of 1.4762 at 20°C. The syrup was moderately visous (2.1 Poiseuille), acid (pH 4.45) but relatively poor in vitamin C (2.8 mg/100 ml) and protein (0.3%). Sensory evaluation showed no significant difference (p0.05) in taste, flavor and overall acceptability betweenV. doniana syrup and honey. Both physico-chemical and sensory results indicate that the syrup was highly desirable and can substitute for other syrups as a nutritive sweetener.     

Utilization of fluted pumpkin fruit ( Telfairia occidentalis) in marmalade manufacturing

Marmalade was produced from fluted pumpkin ( Telfairia occidentalis) fruit. The fruit was pulped, boiled and filtered to obtain pectin extract. The extract was boiled at 102 °C for 30 min with the pH and sugar levels adjusted to 3.2 and 68.5 °Brix, respectively. Fruit shreds were added towards the end of boiling. Results of analyses showed that the pulp is rich in Na, K, Fe, P, Mn and pectin (1.01%), but low in protein (0.86%). The marmalade had a firm gel and was acidic (pH 3.15). Mold was absent and syneresis did not occur. The marmalade contained 68.5% total soluble solids and set at 52–56 °C. Sensory evaluation showed no significant difference (p = 0.05) in taste, consistency, spreadability and overall acceptability between fluted pumpkin marmalade and commercial orange marmalade. Both chemical and sensory results denote that the marmalade was highly desirable and compared favourably with similar preserves produced in Nigeria.     

Proximate Composition and Functional Properties of Fullfat and Defatted Beniseed (Sesamum Indicum L.) Flour

The proximate composition and functional properties of fullfat and defatted beniseed (Sesamum indicum L.) flour were evaluated. Functional properties studied were foam capacity and stability, water and oil absorption, bulk density, emulsion capacity and nitrogen solubility. Defatting increased the crude protein, ash, crude fiber, carbohydrate and mineral contents. Defatted flour showed comparatively better foam capacity and stability, water absorption and emulsion capacities but diminished bulk density and oil absorption capacity. Nitrogen solubility was pH dependent with a minimum at pH 4 and maximum at pH 8. Maximum nitrogen solubility (95%) was recorded for defatted flour while that for the fullfat flour was 60%. The proximate composition and functional properties of the samples suggest that beniseed flour would have useful application in fabricated foods.