Multivariate Analyses of Functional and Chemical Properties of Uapaca Kirkiana Fruits from Zimbabwe

Abstract

The correlation between the functional and chemical properties of U. kirkiana fruit pulp was studied. The functional and chemical properties of the fruit pulps were determined and data were analyzed by regression and principal component analysis (PCA) to show correlations and variances. Results showed a 51.4% variance, PC 1 had a 37.31% variance. PC 2 showed a 14.17% variance. Antioxidant activity (AOA), Cu, vitamin C, total titratable acid (TTA), and Mg had a positive variance in PC 1. TTA and pH were significant and correlated in PC 1. Titratable acidity and pH had a variability of 69% and 74%. Iron and Ca were significant and correlated in PC 2. Phosphorus and AOA were positively correlated. Pulp yield had a weak positive correlation with dry matter, Ca, K, and Zn content. Fruits from Bikita were grouped according to pH levels, AOA, Cu, vitamin C, TTA, and phosphorus content. Fruits in Kazangarare were high in Fe and Ca and grouped together. Magnesium content was significant in fruits obtained from Gokwe. Phosphorus and TTA had significant effect (p < 0.01; p < 0.05) on pulp yield. The results provide useful data about relationship, chemical composition variation of U. kirkiana fruit pulp obtained at the different regions of Zimbabwe.