To Study the Physico Chemical Characteristics and Mineral Contant of Pomegranate Arils Juice

Background: Pomegranate arils juice is renowned for its nutritional qualities, which are influenced by various storage conditions and varietal characteristics. This study explores the physico-chemical properties and mineral content of three distinct pomegranate varieties—Ghandhri, Bedana, and Tarnab Gulabi—under different storage conditions. Objective: The primary goal of the research was to examine the impact of storage on the TSS, pH, acidity, and mineral content (iron, zinc, and calcium) of pomegranate arils juice from three regional varieties. Methods: The study was conducted at the Human Nutrition and Agriculture Chemistry laboratory at the University of Agriculture, Peshawar, and the Food Science division of the Agriculture Research Institute Tarnab. Fresh and stored juices from the three varieties were analyzed to assess changes in physico-chemical properties and mineral content. Results: Storage led to an increase in the levels of zinc and iron, with recorded increases in zinc to 0.568±0.04 ppm in Ghandhri and iron peaking at 0.19±0.2 ppm in Tarnab Gulabi. However, calcium content decreased during storage, with a notable reduction to 3.13±2.93 ppm in stored juices. TSS was highest in Ghandhri and Tarnab Gulabi at 15.6±1.02, while acidity was highest in Ghandhri at 2.139±0.19. Conclusion: The study confirms that storage significantly alters the physico-chemical properties and mineral content of pomegranate arils juice, with detrimental effects on calcium levels but beneficial impacts on zinc and iron content. Notable varietal differences were observed, with Tarnab Gulabi displaying the highest phenolic content.