Physicochemical Properties of Spray-Dried Young Coconut Juice

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity and phytochemical determinations of Young Coconut Juice (YCJ) from Cocos nucifera L. (Arecaceae) and spray-dried maltodextrin (MD) mixed YCJ powder (MD-YCJ powder).Methods: YCJ and spray-dried YCJ in various concentrations 0-20% (w/v) of MD were studied on physical properties, chemical properties, antioxidant activity and phytochemical determinations. Results: YCJ and reconstituted spray-dried YCJ were significant (p<0.05) difference in physicochemical properties (color, pH, total soluble solids and transmittance).Water activity (a w) of spray-dried YCJ products were significant (p<0.05) difference. Antioxidant activity of YCJ and spray-dried YCJ in various concentrations 0-20% (w/v) of MD were studied. The isolated compound of spray-dried YCJ and spray-dried MD-YCJ powder (20%, w/v), β-sitosterol, was separated, identified and confirmed by comparison of their physical properties (TLC, HPLC chromatogram, melting point).The quantitative analysis of β-sitosterol in YCJ and selected spray-dried YCJ powder (calculated as 1 coconut fruit, 350 ml) using suitable HPLC conditions were 89.12±7.76 and 12.31±2.50 µg, respectively. Conclusion: Spray-dried technique was selected and used as drying process of YCJ. MD was used as encapsulating agent to dried powder. Spray-dried MD-YCJ powder 20% (w/v) was selected to future study because of their good physical appearance, physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity and good stability. 