Changes in Nutrient Composition and Quality Characteristics of Peeled Citrullus Lunatus, Preserved in Different Packaging Materials.

Abstract

Okparauka I I, Ojimelukwe P C, Otu Christain G, Ogbu O T, Ogboji C F, Nworie O. A and Obasi S. E

Peeled melon seeds are widely consumed and are export items for several countries. The present research was conducted to establish the appropriate packaging materials for nutrient retention and shelf stability of peeled melon seeds (Citrullus lanatus). Fresh melon seeds were peeled and stored in three packaging materials- (Hessian Brown Bag (HBB), Propylene Bag (GSB) and Transparent Polyethylene Bag (TPB) for three months. Functional properties, physiochemical properties and nutrient composition of the samples were determined at the onset and after 3 months using standard AOAC methods. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) between the fresh and sam- ples stored for 3 months in all the functional properties. Emulsion capacity decreased after 3 months, while emulsion stability increased. All the vitamins, minerals and approximate nutrients determined (except carbohydrates) decreased as the storage period increased. The indices of fat deterioration increased with the storage period. Both the storage period and the packaging material did not affect the mag- nesium and zinc contents; iron, manganese, vitamin B6 and vitamin A contents decreased with storage period. Melon seeds packaged in Hessian bag retained the highest amount of nutrients and was the least susceptible to deterioration by fat rancidity.

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