PROXIMATE COMPOSITION OF MAROLO SEED

The marolo or araticum (Annona crassiflora Mart.) is a native fruit of Brazillian cerrado known for the high nutritional value and pleasant taste of its pulp. It has relatively large seeds that are still poorly studied and therefore not used for human consumption. This is due to the lack of knowledge about the composition of this product and its toxicity. Thus, this study aimed to determine the proximate composition of marolo seed in order to know quantitatively and qualitatively the main nutritional components of this product. The analyzes for quantification of moisture, ashes, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates, being the last variable obtained by difference, were performed in ten repetitions. The results obtained showed that marolo seed is composed of 26.19 ± 0.48% moisture, 1.39 ± 0.55% ash, 14.92 ± 0.48% protein, 15.85 ± 1.54% lipids and 32.36 ± 2.93% carbohydrates. Although toxicological tests are still necessary to ensure food safety of marolo seed, its proximate composition was similar to the other widely consumed oilseeds, mainly in relation to protein content. In addition, as it is an agroindustrial residue, marolo seed proved to be a good option for elaboration and adding value to other products.