Yield and physicochemical properties of starch at different sago palm stages

Abstract

Sago (Metroxylon sagu) starch used in the current study was derived from palm separated into Plawei Manit, Bubul, and Angau Muda growth stages. The three palm stages were characterized by separation into a top and bottom part of the trunk. The present study was conducted to determine the total sago starch production, particle size distribution, color, swelling power and solubility of sago starch as influenced by different palm growth stages. The total starch calculated by determining weight different before and after drying process was ranged from 55 kg to 155 kg with the bottom palm produced higher output than top palm. The particle size distribution analyzed using Particle Size Analyzer for D4,3, D3,2, D10, D50, and D90 were distinctive for sago starch isolated either from top or bottom part of palm stages and the value found to be between 21.53 µm and 56.56 µm. Color parameter of L*, a*, and b* as determined from Chroma Meter showed significantly different (p < 0.05) color tone for three growth stages with the results ranged from 80.70 to 94.81, −0.81 to 1.34, and 5.35 to 8.48, respectively. The swelling power as calculated from ratio of starch after centrifugation and solubility of starch computed from weight percentage after drying were ranged from 13.14 to 18.85 and 5.63 to 8.07. The swelling power and solubility displayed higher results in sago starch obtained from bottom palm as swelling power larger in Plawei Manit whereas solubility was greater in Bubul growth stage. Sago starch isolated from bottom segment of sago palm showed higher results for yield, particle size, swelling power and solubility than top section of trunk. This study can be used to categorize different quality of sago starch and enhance its value for addition into suitable commercial application.