Engineering and proximate properties of miracle berry fruit (Synsepalum dulcificum L.)
Loading...
Date
2021
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
CIGR Journal- International Commision of Agricultural and Biological Engineering
Abstract
This research was carried out to determine some physical, mechanical, mineral, and proximate properties of miracle berry fruits (Synsepalum dulcificum L.) in the moisture range of 6.45%-9.73% (dry basis, db). Physical properties, including bulk density and terminal speed, were determined by standard procedures. Mechanical properties including stiffness and deformation were determined using quasi-static compression analysis. Proximate and mineral compositions of the fruit including crude protein and calcium contents were determined using standard analytical methods. Results showed that the terminal velocity, stiffness, mineral contents increased generally with a decrease in the moisture content (p < 0.05). The average values of the terminal velocity, stiffness, crude protein, calcium contents of the fruit at 6.45% (db) were 14.32 mm s-1 , 2.37 N mm-1 , 11.13% and 92.11 mg 100 g-1 , respectively. We recommended the values at 6.45% moisture content for minimal product damage during bulk transportation, and for the design of cutting equipment for the product. Citation: Fadeyibi, A., W. A. Lamidi, and S. M. Ademola. 2021. Engineering and proximate properties of miracle berry fruit (Synsepalum dulcificum L.) essential for its processing equipment design. Agricultural Engineering International: CIGR Journal, ? (23)4: 227-235.