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Variability in Carob Fruit Composition: Geographic and Maturity Stage Effects on Physical and Biochemical Properties
Salah Laaraj1,2, Chaimae El-Rhouttais1,2, Hicham Ouhakki3
1Regional Center of Agricultural Research of Tadla, National Institute of Agricultural Research (INRA), Rabat 10090, Morocco, inra.org.ma.
Scientifica
|August 1, 2026
Summary
Geographic origin and maturity significantly impact carob fruit quality. Immature carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) fruits show varying morphological and biochemical traits based on location and developmental stage, influencing their potential applications.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Food Science
- Botany
Background:
- Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a valuable crop with diverse applications.
- Understanding factors influencing carob fruit quality is crucial for optimizing its use.
- Geographic origin and fruit maturity are key determinants of plant product characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of geographic origin and phenological stage on carob fruit morphology and biochemistry.
- To assess variations in bioactive compounds and antioxidant activities across different maturity stages and locations.
- To provide data for optimizing the use of carob fruits in food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries.
Main Methods:
- Sampling of immature carob fruits from three Moroccan locations across seven phenological stages (T0-T7).
- Assessment of morphological parameters (length, width, thickness), colorimetric indices, sugar content, total polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and antioxidant activities (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP).
- Statistical analysis using Two-way ANOVA and Principal Component Analysis (PCA).
Main Results:
- Both geographic origin and maturity stage significantly affected carob fruit attributes.
- Morphological characteristics increased significantly with maturation, especially from T5-T7.
- Bioactive compounds (phenols, flavonoids, tannins) peaked at intermediate maturity stages (T1-T2), with variations influenced by site.
Conclusions:
- Carob fruit quality is significantly influenced by both environmental factors (geographic origin) and developmental stage.
- Optimal maturity stages exist for maximizing specific bioactive compounds in carob fruits.
- Findings support targeted utilization of carob fruits based on their developmental stage and origin for enhanced nutritional and functional value.
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