Abstract

Preference for dried mango is on the increase as it provides a good source of nutrients, whilst evading consumption of fatty in some post-harvest processed fruits. However, data on proximate and chemical compositions of dried mango fruits is lacking. Hence this research was intended to determine effects of sulphur concentration (0, 10, 20, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250 and 300 ppm) on the nutritional value and the proximate composition of six selected mango cultivars (Tommy Atkins, Peach, Saber, Sunshine, Keitt and Vhavenda) grown in South Africa. The study shows that increasing sulphur concentration had a quadratic effect on mango pulp proximate concentration and chemical composition, reaching a maximum at 50 ppm regardless of cultivar. Significant differences (p<0.01) in nutrient content were found in the mango cultivars. Keitt had significantly more protein than other cultivars, whilst Vhavenda had more fibre contents. Significant differences (p<0.01) in secondary metabolites were also found in the mango cultivars with Saber having significantly more polyphenols (0.4 mg of Gallic acid/100 mg) and antioxidants (65.4 µmol/g).

Key words: Mango cultivars, nutritional value, proximate composition, sulphur.