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.