Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of this work was to study the effect of the irrigation with treated wastewater (TWW) on the quality parameters of “Chemlali” olive oil through two crop seasons (2004/2005 and 2006/2007). The results showed that irrigation with TWW did not affect the examined oil quality indices (free acidity, specific ultraviolet absorbance K232 and K270). During the two crop seasons, the mean values of these parameters are lower than the upper limits established for the best commercial olive oil quality designated as “Extra Virgin.” However, a significant increase of palmitic, palmitoleic, linoleic, linolenic and stearic acid contents was found in the 2006/2007 crop season in the plot irrigated with TWW as compared to the one treated with well water. In addition, a decrease of oleic acid and polyphenol content was observed at the end of experimental period. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONSThe availability of fresh water is very scarce in the Middle East and North Africa. Yet consequently, good quality water is used to irrigate crops more sensitive to water shortage than olive trees. Brackish water or recycled wastewater can be used for irrigation, minimizing the exploitation of natural water resources. In Tunisia, treated wastewater (TWW) is commonly used to irrigate olive trees. The aim of the present study was to assess changes in quality characteristics (free acidity, specific ultraviolet absorbance K232 and K270, fatty acid composition and total phenolic compounds) of “Chemlali” olive oil obtained from trees irrigated with TWW.

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