This study aimed at determining the centesimal composition, the energy value and the sodium content in beef bouillon cubes and compare them with the nutritional information by the manufacturer. Beef bouillon cube samples were collected in supermarkets in of the city of Limoeiro do Norte/CE, and the levels of nutrients were determined by official analysis methods. The physicochemical analyses carried out were moisture, lipids, proteins, fixed mineral residue, total carbohydrates and sodium content. The beef bouillon cubes analyzed showed a low moisture content (3.23 -4.23 g/100 g) and high levels of lipids (19.72 -20.05 g/100 g) and fixed mineral residue (53.24 -57.61 g/100 g). When compared to the data reported on their labels, all the parameters were in smaller amounts than the ones declared in all analyzed brands. The average sodium content found in the samples ranged from 758.5 to 815.5 mg/serving of the product. Considering that the results were based on a portion of broth and that these amounts are related to half a cube of beef bouillon, it becomes quite alarming the amount of sodium available in this type of product, since the food prepared with this ingredient is usually eaten alongside other foods, which also contain sodium in their composition.

Guazuma ulmifolia Lam., popularly known as mutamba, mutambo and mucungo, is widespread throughout Latin America. Studies on the physicochemical characteristics and the technological application of its constituents can support its use as raw material for enrichment and formulation of food products. This study aimed at to identify substances of food interest derived from mutamba fruit, through its physical, physicochemical, proximate, mineral, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity characterization in two maturation stages. The incomplete and full physiological maturation had, on average, mass of 5.52 and 3.54 g, respectively, and acid pH of 4.84 on average. Soluble solids content increased with maturity reaching 32.9 °Brix. Regarding proximate composition, it was observed an increase in protein, lipid, crude fiber and ash; and reduction of 80% in moisture. The most concentrated minerals were K, N, Ca, P and Mg. The content of anthocyanins, polyphenols, yellow flavonoids and the antioxidant activity increased with maturation, while vitamin C remained at 1500 mg.100 g-1. This study is innovative as mutamba fruits with incomplete physiological maturation were characterized for the first time. That mutamba fruits, no matter the physiological maturation, have potential of exploitation in the food industry, due to their high content of soluble solids, as well as in the enrichment of other food products as source of vitamin C and minerals.