Abstract:
The correlation between the functional and chemical properties
of U. kirkiana fruit pulp was studied. The functional and chemical
properties of the fruit pulps were determined and data were
analyzed by regression and principal component analysis (PCA)
to show correlations and variances. Results showed a 51.4%
variance, PC 1 had a 37.31% variance. PC 2 showed a 14.17%
variance. Antioxidant activity (AOA), Cu, vitamin C, total titratable
acid (TTA), and Mg had a positive variance in PC 1. TTA and
pH were significant and correlated in PC 1. Titratable acidity and
pH had a variability of 69% and 74%. Iron and Ca were significant
and correlated in PC 2. Phosphorus and AOA were positively
correlated. Pulp yield had a weak positive correlation with
dry matter, Ca, K, and Zn content. Fruits from Bikita were
grouped according to pH levels, AOA, Cu, vitamin C, TTA, and
phosphorus content. Fruits in Kazangarare were high in Fe and
Ca and grouped together. Magnesium content was significant in
fruits obtained from Gokwe. Phosphorus and TTA had significant
effect (p < 0.01; p < 0.05) on pulp yield. The results provide
useful data about relationship, chemical composition variation
of U. kirkiana fruit pulp obtained at the different regions of
Zimbabwe
