Nutritional evaluation of Kadota species figs cultivated in the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

Figs are beneficial for a healthy diet for several reasons like aids digestion and maintains gut health; contains antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress; they are a good source of B vitamins, K and minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium; may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease due to their potassium and fiber content. In addition, they have a naturally sweet taste that can replace processed sweets. Standard methods of assessing parameters were used for physico-chemical analysis of fresh figs grown in the Republic of Moldova, such as: titratable acidity, pH, content in dry substances and the amount of total sugars. To determine the content of polyphenols, organic acids and anthocyanins in fresh figs, the spectrophotometric method was used using the DR-5000 device (Germany) in the wave spectrum between 190 and 1100 nm. Thus, it was determined that the DW content is 24,3%, the titratable acidity is 2.45%, the pH is 4.9 and the amount of total sugars is 20.5%. Following the quantitative determination of polyphenols in fresh figs, it was found that chlorogenic acid predominates (46 mg/100g), followed by gallic acid (31 mg/100g), quercetin (5.3 mg/100g), kaempferol (2.12 mg /100g) and rutinoside (2.56 mg/100g). Regarding the presence of anthocyanins, the content is quite low, represented mostly by cyanidin (1.46 mg/100g product). The presence of organic acids is also insignificant: malic acid (0.87 mg/100 g); citric acid (0.24 mg/100 g) and tartric acid (0.132 mg/100 g). After evaluating the composition of figs in minerals, it can be found that they are predominantly K (230 mg/100 g) and Ca (38 mg/100 g). Then, comes Mg (15 mg/100g) and P (14 mg/100g). The lowest content, but not insignificant, are Fe (0.4 mg/100g) and Zn (0.15 mg/100g product). Based on this study, Kadota fig cultivars grown in the Republic of Moldova demonstrate significant nutritional and phytochemical value, making them promising candidates for inclusion in healthy diets.