Caracterização física e química de frutos do pequizeiro (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) oriundos de duas regiões no estado de Goiás, Brasil

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate physical and chemical characteristics of Caryocar brasiliense fruits originated from Araguapaz and Mambaí regions, Goiás State, Brazil. Five replicates, with sixteen fruits for each determination were used in a completely randomized experimental design. The evaluated quality criteria were: fruit, peel, and not developed seed (fruitlet) masses; fruit and pit (internal mesocarp, endocarp, and nut) number and dimensions; pit, pulp, and nut total dimensions, and moisture content; pulp ethereal extract and protein, and pulp pH. It was observed a difference (p<0.05) among regions for fruits, except for mass of not developed seeds per fruit (p>0.05). C. brasiliense fruits from Araguapaz region presented lower fruit and pit masses and dimensions, and greater pulp and nut yield, protein content and ethereal extract level than fruits from Mambaí region. It was concluded that Araguapaz pequi fruits have greater nutritional value and are more appropriated for industrial processing than fruits from Mambaí regions.