Microbiological and Physicochemical attributes of two date Cultivars Hmira and Feggous’ in Abadela, Bechar Oasis , South-West of Algeria

Abstract

Phoenix dactylifera L. Date, a high energy fruit with a sweet taste, is one of the most important staple foods consumed in southern region of Algeria. The aim of this study was to determine the physico-chemical and microbial attributes of two common date varieties (Feggous and Hmira) in Abadla Oasis–Bechar (South-west of Algeria) for their valorization. The analysis showed that dates fruits contained a high level of total sugar which exceeded 80%, but a low content of fat (0.72%) and protein (0.91%). The mean value of humidity, pH and ash of the samples were obtained as 22.13%, 6.17, and 1.72% respectively all dates contained high amounts of K, Na, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Ca, Mg and P. The maximum levels of the majority of minerals were found in Feggous variety. Moreover, Vitamin E and Vitamin C of under-valued dates ranged between 0.37 and 2.74 mg/100g on dry weight basis. The microbiological analyses of dates showed the existence of total aerobic flora, a fungal flora dominated by Penicillium and Aspergillus, yeasts as well as the absence of pathogen strains. The morphological, biochemical and microbial properties of studied date fruits were in accordance with national and international regulations. These results may be useful for valorization of local date varieties, and for evaluation of dietary information and concludes that dates are the good sources of minerals and vitamins in Saharan regions.