The aim of this study was to assess the physical and physical-chemical characteristics of the fruits of 21 reproductive peach palms to help guide future research on genetic improvements of the species, especially regarding the fruit pulp. Fruits from each genetic material were characterized by fruit and seed size, moisture, protein, lipid, ash, fiber and total carotenoids. Average values for all studied variables were significantly different among all individuals. Protein values ranged from 4.20 to 6.79%, especially for B04-P20 that showed the highest value. Lipid levels varied markedly, with values ranging between 8.25 and 40.83%, and matrix B02-P30 presenting the greatest levels of lipids. Total carotenoids ranged from 8.02 to 124.90 mg/g, with matrices B02-P30 (124.90µg/g) and B05-P45 (123.04µg/g) presenting the highest values. The high total carotenoid values observed indicates that peach palms could make a significant contribution to antioxidants in the diet. Overall, the physical and physical-chemical assessment revealed significant differences among the studied reproductive individuals for the characters studied, indicating that this species offers considerable promise for future research on genetic improvements.
Bactris gasipaes Kunth; physical-chemical characterization; carotenoids
