Determination of carbohydrate levels in fruits by UV-Visible Spectrophotometer

Abstract

Fruits are very nutrient-dense and incredibly healthy. A rapid method was developed for the quantitative estimation of carbohydrates present in the different natural green leafy vegetables by UV-Visible Spectro-photometer. A study was carried out to determine the soluble carbohydrate content of some selected fruit which include apple, banana, custard apple, guava, papaya, grapes, pineapple, orange, pomegranate, kiwi fruit, mango, strawberries. Soluble carbohydrate was determined by Anthrone method Spectrophotometry at wavelength of 750 nm1. For most people, between 40% and 60% of total calories should come from carbohydrates, preferably from complex carbohydrates (starches) and naturally occurring sugars2. This study was aimed at evaluating the soluble carbohydrate content of some selected fruits consumed locally with a view to determine whether they meet the dietary requirement of consumers. It is envisaged that the findings of the investigation would provide additional information on the nutritional status of the fruits.