Biometric and biochemical characterization for potential uses of Euterpe edulis (Martius) seeds.

Abstract

Sustainable use of Euterpe edulis for fruit pulp production is an alternative to illegal cutting of the plant. The use of its seeds, a by-product of pulp extraction, may add value to fruit production. However, characterization of the seeds is necessary to guide this use. This study characterized the fruit and seeds of E. edulis in a pulp production management area in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. The fruit was evaluated regarding size, volume, and color and was then pulped, quantifying the pulp yield, which was a mean of 21%. The seeds mostly consisted of crude fiber (58.9%) and lipids (18.1%). Low soluble (2.11%) and insoluble (11.15%) lignin content and high energy potential (16.25 MJ kg-1) were observed. From initial biochemical sampling, the composition of the seeds was determined by near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for all the plants. The sugar, starch, lipid, and protein contents was more variable than the biometric profile (diameter, weight, and volume). The largest variation was observed for soluble sugar content, whereas the crude fiber content of the seeds showed little variation. The high content of fiber, as well as carbohydrates and lipids, suggests that juçara seeds can be used for producing meal for human and animal consumption. More studies are recommended on the use of oil from the seeds. The physical hardness of the seeds, the difficulty of grinding them, and their low lignin content and high energy potential indicate the use of intact seeds as biochar.