Food Science and Technology
Thanh Viet Nguyen; Le Hoang Phuc; Ngoc Quy Nguyen; Minh Tien Nguyen; Van Chi Khang
Abstract
Purpose: This study evaluated how ripening stages and anatomical parts affect the nutritional composition, physicochemical attributes, and antioxidant potential of Ri6 Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.). The goal was to determine the optimal harvest stage and explore full fruit utilization to reduce postharvest ...
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Purpose: This study evaluated how ripening stages and anatomical parts affect the nutritional composition, physicochemical attributes, and antioxidant potential of Ri6 Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.). The goal was to determine the optimal harvest stage and explore full fruit utilization to reduce postharvest losses. Research method: Peel, flesh, and seed samples were collected at 15 weeks (mature fruit, MF) and 17 weeks (ripe fruit, RF) after flowering. Ethanol extracts were analyzed for proximate composition, pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity using DPPH and ABTS assays. Findings: Ripening increased moisture (36.7-80.8%) and sugars (16.7-55.5 mg/g DW), while reducing acidity. The peel consistently exhibited the highest bioactive levels, with TPC reaching 2.91 mg GAE/g and TFC 0.21 mg QE/g at MF. Antioxidant activity was stronger in the peel, with DPPH values up to 0.67 mg AAE/g DW, exceeding ABTS activity (0.50 mg AAE/g DW). Research limitations: The study was limited to one Durian cultivar (Ri6) and two ripening stages, which may restrict generalizability to other cultivars or maturity levels. Originality/Value: This research highlights the underutilized value of Durian peel and seed for functional food or nutraceutical development, and provides practical guidance for ripening-based harvest decisions to support sustainable postharvest strategies. The findings contribute innovative insights into full-fruit utilization and promote value addition for tropical fruits, offering practical applications for both industry and farmers.
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