Physicochemical and phytochemical characteristics of exotic Cungap red coconut

Abstract

“Cungap” red (CR) coconut is an exotic coconut that has specific characters, i.e. the husk contains high antioxidant components. The study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical and phytochemical characteristics of CR coconut (husk, kernel, and water). Tender and mature CR coconut fruits were collected from farmers at Sukarena Village, Ciomas District, Serang Regency, Banten Province. The mature nuts were evaluated for the physicochemical characteristics (moisture, protein, ash, fat and fatty acids profile). Vitamins and minerals were measured from the young coconut water. Anthocyanin and β-carotene were analysed from the tender nuts (husk, meat, and water). The results showed that CR kernel contained 8.35% of water, 2.02% of ash, 7.13% of protein, and 60.09% of fat. The medium-chain fatty acids were mainly from the coconut kernel fat (52.55%). Lauric acid was the major fatty acid (45.89%). The Majority of minerals (calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium) contained in the coconut water; potassium content was the highest (289.95 mg/100 ml). The β-carotene content in the husk and kernel were 18.43/100g and 1.28 mg/100g, respectively. Also, the anthocyanin contents in the husk, kernel, and coconut water were 8.01 mg/100 g, 1.5 mg/100 g, and 0.8 mg/100 g, respectively. The study implies that CR coconut is potential as anthocyanin, β-carotene, and mineral sources for human health.

Untargeted Metabolomics Analysis of Liquid Endosperm of Cocos nucifera L. at Three Stages of Maturation Evidenced Differences in Metabolic Regulation

“…The content of these lipids, although important for fruit physiology, may be lower in coconut water compared with oily fruits, classifying this drink as a low-caloric product, suitable for hyperglycaemic, hyperlipidimic and nephropathy patients [69]. (B) Anthocyanin biosynthesis: anthocyanins are pigments responsible for the red, purple and blue colors in many fruits, flowers, and leaves [70], and they have been previously reported in coconut water [71,72]. For this reason, coconut water is considered to be useful for human health, against cancer and heart diseases.…”

“…For this reason, coconut water is considered to be useful for human health, against cancer and heart diseases. The coconut kernel may contain 10 times more anthocyanin compared with coconut water [71], and the over-accumulation of these products contribute to the change of color in the exocarp during fruit maturation. (C) Flavone and flavonol biosynthesis: Flavonoids are a group of plant secondary metabolites involved in pigmentation, UV protection, defense against pathogens, and as signaling molecules [63].…”