PHYTOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF FRUITS IN SOME SPECIES OF THE CUCURBITACEAE FAMILY

Abstract

Cucurbitaceae fruits are known for their low fat and calorie content and high water content. However, they are rich in phytochemical compounds. Understanding their nutritional value is necessary for better utilization and maximizing nutrient intake. In addition, fruits can be harvested in stages, thus ensuring the availability and continuous access to food, an important dimension of food security. This study aims to evaluate the nutritional and phytochemical properties of some Cucurbitaceae species: cucumber (Cucumis sativus), horned cucumber or kiwano (Cucumis metuliferus) and bitter cucumber (Momordica charantia) grown in southwestern Romania. For this, the fruits of the three species were harvested at the green stage. The results showed higher concentrations of TSS in Cucumis sativus (4.5 %) and Cucumis metuliferus (4.6 %), of reducing sugar in Cucumis sativus (2.037 %) and of vitamin C and total phenols in Momordica charantia fruits (11.41 mg/100g ascorbic acid and 104.5 mg GAE/100g, respectively).