Physical and Biochemical Properties of Chan (Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit) Seeds Grown in Different Locations

The main goal of this work was to establish the differences in the physical properties and nutritional quality of chan seeds (Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit) as well as to determine their influence on the structural characteristics. In this study, three sites along the eastern coast of Mexico were selected for sample collection since they are the areas in which chan is produced. Its protein content is comparable to pseudocereal (17.92%-19.63%). For their part, in fats (17.81%-18.38%), ῳ-6 (74.67%-78.19%) and ῳ-9 (9.31%-11.32%) acids mainly predominate. The high crude fiber content (18.79%-20.85%) allows the prebiotic potential of the seeds to be considered. Physical properties showed variations between crops: length (3.275-3.559 mm), width (2.443-2.635 mm), perimeter (10.139-12.202 mm), and weight (5.161-5.651 g/1000 seeds), occupying a volume of 4.913-5.174 mm³. The true density ranged between 1.056 and 1.088 g/cm³; bulk density was 0.616-0.621 g/cm³; the static (28.31°-29.73°) and dynamic (35.21°-40.58°) angle of repose also varied between crops. The surface, thickness, arithmetic and geometric diameter, percentage of sphericity, and porosity were determined and the volume of PDI was calculated, which ranged between 5.649 and 6.226 mm³. Pearson correlation coefficient determined the relationship between the properties studied, with n = 120 determinations per parameter (p < 0.05). In the microstructure of the exocarp of the seeds, there is an areolar zone of globular cells and a predominant zone (mixocarpy) which is characterized by being formed by intermingled mucilaginous and non-mucilaginous cells of isodiametric and angular shape. This study provides knowledge for modernizing sowing and post-harvest for intensive cultivation. This study contributes essential knowledge for the modernization of sowing and post harvest practices in intensive cultivation systems. It also provides the basis for establishing standardized procedures and designing equipment for the efficient handling, processing, storage, and distribution of agricultural products.