Original Articles
F. Gourchala, M. Ouazouaz, F.
Abstract
Morphological, physicochemical, biochemical, phytochemical and sensory characteristics of date fruits of cultivars Deglet Noor, Tamesrit, Ghars, Tinissine and H’mira were investigated. External and internal fruit quality was assessed by different parameters: fruits and cores weights and dimensions, pH, salt content, water, sugar, proteins, lipids, polyphenols and Flavonoids. Sensory quality was performed by panel tests of size, aroma, color, texture and sweet/acid taste of fruits. The studied varieties showed a low content in fat and proteins, but important amounts of sugars, dietary fiber, potassium and polyphenols. These results suggest that the five varieties are a good source of essential and important nutrients on health. The dates have significantly distinct characteristics; Tamesrit had the highest weight (14,66 g) compared to other varieties; Deglet Noor showed significantly (p<0,05) higher level of sugar (70%) particularly sucrose (29%) against 0% in Tamesrit and finally Tinissine contained significantly (p<0,05) higher levels of polyphenols. Differences in sensory scores of fruit were found between cultivars; showing a high preference score for Tamesrit cultivar.