Determination of Some Physical, Chemical and Antioxidant Properties of Erzincan Traditional Mulberry Pekmez (Molasses)

Abstract

In this study, it was aimed to determine some quality properties of Erzincan mulberry pekmez (molasses) produced with traditional method. For this purpose, various physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity were determined on ten mulberry molasses samples traditionally produced in 2018 and 2019. In the pekmez samples pH 4.86-5.17, titratable acidity 0.53-0.85%, total dry matter 71.91-84.07%, water soluble dry matter 70.60-83.80%, total ash 1.44-3.47%, protein 1.47-3.19%, water activity 0.59-0.75, 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF) 5.70-72.62 mg/kg, total sugar 64.04-71.40%, invert sugar 40.46-56.15%, sucrose 7.76-26.59%, calorie 262.01-294.54 kcal/100 g, viscosity 745-15275 cP, L* value 19.19-32.64, a* value 5.68-17.53, b* value 2.46-9.01, H° value 15.78-52.10 and C* value were detected in the range of 8.74-19.72. Total phenolic content (TFM), 1,1diphenyl-2picyrlhydrazyl (DPPH) antioxidant activity and % inhibition values were found to be in the range of 3.92-10.05 mg GAE/g, 1.31-6.25 mg TE/g and 7.96-30.69%, respectively. According to the results, in general the pekmez samples were found to have quite high nutritional values, to be a good source of antioxidants and TPC, and the amount of HMF remained quite below the limits reported in the TS 12001 Standard (Made From Mulberry). Consequently, it was revealed that molasses which have natural, high nutritional values and health beneficial can be produced with the traditional production technique in Erzincan region. It is thought that these research results will contribute to the importance, promotion, appreciation and protection of Erzincan traditional mulberry pekmez.