Comparative phyto-chemical profiling and nutritional evaluation of Mosambi (Citrus sinensis L.) and kinnow (Citrus reticulata) juices: Implications for antioxidant and functional beverage applications

Abstract

This study presents comparative phyto-chemical profiling and nutritional evaluation of mosambi (Citrus sinensis l.) and kinnow (Citrus reticulata) juices: implications for antioxidant and functional beverage applications, aiming to evaluate their nutritional properties. the analysis focused on the presence and concentration of key bioactive compounds such as total soluble solids (TSS), pH, titrable acidity, reducing sugar, total sugar, free radical scavenging activity (FRSA), crude protein & protein, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), phenolic content, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Standard qualitative and quantitative methods were employed, including spectrophotometric assays and chromatographic techniques. Results indicated that both juices are rich in phyto-chemicals, with kinnow juice exhibiting higher levels of pH, reducing sugar, crude fat and crude fibre while mosambi juice contained a greater concentration of total soluble solids (TSS). Titrable Acidity, total sugar, free radical scavenging activity (FRSA), crude protein, ascorbic acid, phenolic content, flavonoids, and carotenoids. The presence of these compounds underlines the antioxidant, potential anticancer properties of the juices, supporting their role as functional beverages. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the health benefits associated with regular consumption of citrus juices and encourage further exploration into their therapeutic applications.