Biochemical Characterization of Jabuticaba (Plinia cauliflora) Varieties

Abstract

A study was conducted at the Department of Fruit Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, to perform a biochemical analysis of Jabuticaba (Plinia cauliflora). Native to Brazil and belonging to the Myrtaceae family, this fruit tree has been introduced to Kerala, where several varieties were identified through a survey. No systematic study has been undertaken regarding the evaluation and morphological characterization of jabuticaba under Kerala conditions. So here an attempt is being made to locate the types of jabuticaba, which give high fruit quality under Kerala conditions. The evaluation of selected elite types will also help in the further crop improvement of jabuticaba and it is also a boon to the farmers. Hence , the present study is proposed for the characterization and evaluation of jabuticaba under Kerala conditions. The research focused on key biochemical parameters of the fruit, including total soluble solids (TSS), acidity, ascorbic acid, reducing sugars, total sugars, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. The Percoce variety had a high TSS of 18.8° Brix, indicating its natural sweetness. The Red Pouch and Aureana varieties recorded an acidity level of 1.9%. The Percoce variety also had notable levels of ascorbic acid (167.10 mg/100g), reducing sugars (8.4%), and total sugars (10%). The Escarlate variety showed the highest anthocyanin content in its skin (281.6 mg/100g), while the Red Crystal variety had the greatest flavonoid content (4.1 mg/100g). These results underline Jabuticaba's high nutritional value and provide useful information for farmers when choosing the best varieties for cultivation.