Physicochemical characterization of andean papaya in southern Peru

Abstract

The Andean papaya (Carica pubescens) is an underexplored fruit with significant agro-industrial potential due to its unique characteristics and non-seasonal production. This study aimed to characterize Andean papaya produced by the “Asociación de Productores de Papaya Andina Orgánica de la Provincia de Sandia” (ASPPAO) in Peru. Random samples were analyzed one-day post-harvest to assess weight distribution, physicochemical properties, and color. Results indicated an average fruit weight of 192.26 ± 19.86 g, with a distribution of 56.62% mesocarp, 26.73% endocarp (including 5.61% seeds and 21.12% mucilage), and 16.65% peel. The endocarp, which is the most used part for processing, had a favorable proportion and high value compared to other fruits. The fruit had an average width of 93.18 ± 9.36 mm, height of 69.61 ± 9.55 mm, and volume of 220.50 ± 35.39 cm³, showing variation due to size differences between fruits. Each fruit contained an average of 150.10 ± 19.93 seeds, with a texture of 9.52 ± 2.28 kg/cm², a mesocarp thickness of 11.57 ± 1.30 mm, and a pH of 4.75 ± 0.71. The color analysis revealed that the peel was yellow, the pulp slightly yellow, the mucilage values close to white, and the seeds light brown. The fruit had a low total solids content and titratable acidity expressed in vitamin C with a maturity index of 14.37 ± 3.29. Additionally, chemical differences were observed between the pulp and mucilage, with the latter having higher values of total solids and titratable acidity and slightly more acidic pH values. Further studies are necessary to investigate the chemical content of this product and its potential health effects.