Physicochemical characterization of fresh dragon fruit slices: Proximate composition and quality assessment

Abstract

This study evaluated the proximate composition and quality parameters of fresh dragon fruit slices. The proximate analysis revealed a high moisture content (88.62±4.43%), with carbohydrates accounting for 8.29±0.003%, crude protein at 0.32±0.003%, crude fat at 0.4±0.005%, total ash at 0.52±0.04%, and crude fiber at 1.84±0.09%. Quality assessment indicated a total soluble solids content of 15.2±0.76°Brix, a pH of 4.6±0.23, and a vitamin C concentration of 28.33±1.41 mg/100 g. Water activity was measured at 0.9±0.01, signifying high moisture retention. Colorimetric analysis showed L* (18.45±0.05), a* (25.49±0.15), and b* (0.26±0.01) values, highlighting the characteristic appearance of fresh dragon fruit slices. These findings provide essential insights into the nutritional and physicochemical properties of fresh dragon fruit, which are critical for storage, processing, and quality maintenance.