Effect of canning method on the food security, physical‐chemical characterization and sensorial analysis of banana tree palm heart

Abstract

Crop residues can be used in several ways, e.g processed and marketed for human consumption. The purpose of this paper is an initial approach to this few explored subject, testing two methodology of canning banana tree palm heart, treatment 1 (1% citric acid and 5% sodium chloride at the waiting liquid) and treatment 2 (200 ppm sodium bisulfite at the waiting liquid), their physical-chemical characterization and food security over time, besides sensorial analysis. Both treatments showed good values of phenolic compounds (22.56 and 14.99 mg GAE/100 g respectively) and fibers (2.96 and 2.69 g/100 g), the pH stability (below 4.5) over time and the HCN absence guarantee food security, in the acceptance and purchase intention test, obtained slightly good grades. This product is viable from a nutritional point of view, safe, promising about the palate, opening the field for further studies, in order to improve the methodology to achieve better results. Novelty impact statement This is a very complete study, covering from the physico-chemical characterization of this banana crop waste, to food security and consumer acceptance. In this context, this experiment was carried out in order to evaluate two waiting liquids, one homemade and the other with preservative commonly used in the food industry. Both treatments showed good values of phenolic compounds and fibers, associated to many health benefits. PH stability over time, before the microorganisms identified in the microbiological analyzes, and the absence of HCN guarantee food security. In the acceptance and purchase intention test, the banana tree palm heart obtained slightly good grades. Given the need to produce more food, especially in poorer regions, prove that a cultural waste, commonly discarded, can be used as a low-cost food source is very important. In addition, it provides extra income to banana producers, given that most of them are small producers.