Physicochemical characterization and mass modelling of Sohiong (Prunus nepalensis L.) fruit

Abstract

Sohiong (Prunus nepalensis L.) is an underutilised fruit from north-eastern part of India. It is reported to be a good source of dietary bioactive compounds. Even though it is very much popular as a nutritious fruit among the local tribes, there is no scientific information available on the physicochemical characterisation and value-addition of the fruit. In this work, various physical, mechanical, thermal, and biochemical properties of Sohiong fruit, important for process, machine and product development, were determined. Sohiong is found to be rich in total polyphenols, anthocyanin content, β-carotenes and has good antioxidant capacity compared to plums and cherries. The physical and mechanical properties were used to predict the mass of the fruit by using various models like quadratic, S-curve and power models. The fruits were divided into small, medium and large groups based on mass to minimise standard deviation. Mass could be predicted with maximum accuracy when the models were based on thickness and volume. The power and quadratic models were best suited for mass prediction in all mass groups and other mass distribution (small, medium and large groups). The results of physicochemical characterisation and mass modelling of the fruit would add information to the scientific knowledge base. It would help in design and development of storage, handling, processing and value-addition protocols and equipment for better utilisation of the Sohiong fruit.