Philippine Journal of Science
152 (1): 159-171, February 2023
ISSN 0031 – 7683
Date Received: 07 Jul 2022

Effect of Maturity on Physicochemical and Fatty Acid
Profile of Philippine Pili (Canarium ovatum Engl.)

Cristopher G. Millena1*, Krizza Ashley V. Baloloy2,
Natalie G. Doma2, and Pamela B. Hernan2

1Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. V, Legazpi City 4500 Philippines
2Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Bicol University, Legazpi City 4500 Philippines

*Corresponding author: millena_cris@yahoo.com

[Download]
Millena C et al. 2023. Effect of Maturity on Physicochemical and Fatty Acid
Profile of Philippine Pili (Canarium ovatum Engl.). Philipp J Sci 152(1): 159–171.
https://doi.org/10.56899/152.01.11

 

 

ABSTRACT

Pili (Canarium ovatum Engl.) is a nut-bearing tree indigenous to the Philippines, known for its high economic value and promising oil quality. The pili fruit is considered non-climacteric, making the maturity index of great importance in harvesting. This study evaluated the effect of maturity stages – mature (MS1), unripe (MS2), and ripe (MS3) – on a fully developed kernel on its physical characteristics, proximate composition, oil characteristics, and fatty acid profile. Major changes were noticed in the pulp at different maturity stages. As maturity levels progress, the exocarp darkens significantly from green (L* = 49.64) to black (L* = 15.16), whereas the kernel lightens from green (*a = 1.58 to 3.32) to light-yellow (*b = 26.48 to 22.28). Ripening was accompanied by the kernel’s moisture reduction and fat increase in both pulp (0.33–17.56 %) and kernel (45.73–62.31 %). The main fatty acid identified is oleic acid (C18:1), which was highly detected in the pulp. Oleic and palmitic acids in pulp significantly increased along with maturation, whereas polyunsaturated linoleic and linolenic acids decreased (p < 0.05). Different fruit maturity stages show distinct characteristics, compositions, and fatty acid profiles. Results show that maturity stages MS2 and MS3 are good harvest standards for kernel and MS3 for pulp utilization.