Physicochemical properties of products obtained from the local carob tree varieties

Abstract

A poster presentation regarding the physicochemical properties of products obtained from the local carob tree varieties. Introduction: The carob is one of the most useful native Mediterranean trees. The fruit of the carob tree is the pod, which is rich in sugars and polyphenols. Various products are derived from the carob pod, that are mainly used for animal feed and to make foodstuffs. Products include carob syrup, carob honey, carob candy amongst others. These products have potential health benefits such as treatment for coughs, prevention of diseases such as cardiac and neurodegenerative diseases and also prevent cancers. Aims: The purpose of this study is to compare the physicochemical parameters, antioxidant activity and quality of various products derived from the local carob tree in Malta. The study is focused on carob pod samples, carob honey, carob syrup and carob candy. Differences in the phytochemical characteristics may distinguish one variety of carob from another. Through the findings, one may valorise the local carob tree for the wide variety of products that are obtained from it, as these might have a potential use for medicinal purposes.