Abstract
The Cerrado is the second largest vegetation formation in Brazil, after the Amazon, and is the richest tropical savanna in the world in terms of biodiversity. This study aimed to evaluate cagaita fruits for bioactive compounds and nutrients during their physiological development. The fruits were assessed for phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, vitamin C, and β-carotene in the period between 10 and 37 Days after Anthesis (DAA); the basic chemical composition and mineral levels were estimated at 18 DAA. Bioactive compounds acted mainly as a result of the defense system, especially in younger fruits, whereas the vitamin C content was relatively low throughout fruit development. The basic chemical composition of cagaita fruits was characterized by high moisture content, and lower protein, carbohydrate, and ash contents, and considerable lipids levels. Most of the physiological changes in the fruits started from the 27th day onward, which may indicate the beginning of climacteric in the fruit, culminating in the synthesis and degradation of compounds, leading to ripening. The cagaita fruit presents great potential for agricultural applications and shown potential use in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
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