Evaluation of Antioxidant and Chemical Properties of Prickly Pears Fruit (Opuntia Ficus-İndica) Juice

Abstract

The prickly pears fruit (Opuntia ficus-indica) belongs to Cactacaea family. It grows in the Mediterranean region of Turkey. In recent years, there are some studies on the nutritious value and health benefits of this fruit. This study aims to evaluate the physical, chemical and antioxidant properties of fresh and -18°C stored fruit juice during the storage period of 4 weeks. Results showed that there is a decreasing trend in pH, L, a, b, brix, dry matter, ash, antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, total bacterial count and sugar values, whereas an increasing trend in titration acidity value. According to the result of antimicrobial activity analysis it is stated that prickly pears fruit juice had no antimicrobial effect on E.coli, S.aureus, and also Candida spp.