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Round and lanceolated shapeed zapote mamey fruits were axially compressed in order to evaluate the influence of a potential mechanical damage on physical (weight loss and firmness), chemical (total soluble solids and titled tartness) and physiological parameters (ethylene and CO2) during ripeness. Three axial compression distances were evaluated: elastic limit, bioyield point and point of rupture. It was found that lanceolated fruits compressed to the bioyield point had the highest respiration rate and ethylene production. No influence of fruit shape was found in weight loss, firmness, and accumulation of total soluble solids, and titled tartness. In all the cases, compression accelerated the ripeness process.

High hydrostatic pressure inactivation kinetics of Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium ATCC 14028 ( S. typhimurium) in a low acid mamey pulp at four pressure levels (300, 350, 400, and 450 MPa), different exposure times (0-8 min), and temperature of 25 ± 2℃ were obtained. Survival curves showed deviations from linearity in the form of a tail (upward concavity). The primary models tested were the Weibull model, the modified Gompertz equation, and the biphasic model. The Weibull model gave the best goodness of fit ( R

Although different genotypes of mamey sapote with distinct pulp colors are consumed in countries from Central to South America, in-depth knowledge on genotype-related differences of their carotenoid profile is lacking. Since the fruit was found to contain the potentially vitamin A-active keto-carotenoids sapotexanthin and cryptocapsin, we sought to qualitatively and quantitatively describe the carotenoid profile of different genotypes by HPLC-DAD-MSn. Sapotexanthin and cryptocapsin were present in all genotypes. Keto-carotenoids such as cryptocapsin, capsoneoxanthin, and their esters were most abundant in orange-fleshed fruit, whereas several carotenoid epoxides prevailed in yellow-fleshed fruit. Differing carotenoid profiles were associated with different color hues of the fruit pulp, while the widely variable carotenoid content (3.7–8.0 mg/100 g FW) was mainly reflected by differences in color intensity (chroma C∗). Furthermore, the post-prandial absorption of sapotexanthin to human plasma was proven for the first time. Besides sapotexanthin, cryptocapsin was found to be resorbed. Universidad de Costa Rica/[735-B2-A16]/UCR/Costa Rica UCR::Vicerrectoría de Docencia::Ciencias Agroalimentarias::Facultad de Ciencias Agroalimentarias::Escuela de Tecnología de Alimentos UCR::Vicerrectoría de Investigación::Unidades de Investigación::Ciencias Agroalimentarias::Centro para Investigaciones en Granos y Semillas (CIGRAS) UCR::Vicerrectoría de Investigación::Unidades de Investigación::Ciencias Agroalimentarias::Centro Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos (CITA)

The objective of this work was to determine the chemical composition of crude oil from the seeds of pumpkin and mamey fruits grown in the Yucatan, Mexico. Through the extraction method utilized, it was possible to obtain 50 and 40% of crude oil from pumpkin and mamey seeds, respectively. The refractive index at 40°C and peroxide index of crude oil from mamey seeds were similar to those reported for pumpkin var. Xnuuk K'uum, but significantly higher (P

As dates of earliest use of Theobroma cacao in ancient Mesoamerica are established, interest is shifting to how cacao was used. One approach is to consider combinations of ingredients—the recipes for ancient cacao use. Beverages made from cacao seeds and maize have a long history in Mesoamerica. We began testing the hypothesis that there is qualitative evidence of this beverage type in the Postclassic archaeological record in a region where such a beverage, tejate, is a culturally significant food today. We looked for evidence of tejate ingredients in residue samples from eight Postclassic and one contemporary vessel from the Valley of Oaxaca, Mexico. Detection of morphologically specific maize phytoliths was accomplished by taxonomic analysis and comparison with a reference collection. Tejate ingredients Pouteria sapota and Quararibea funebris were also processed for phytolith detection. Testing for methylxanthines characteristic of Theobroma species used high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Four vessels were positive for maize phytoliths; three were positive for theobromine; two were positive for both maize and cacao. No diagnostic phytoliths were identified for the other tejate ingredients. Our hypothesis was supported; still, many challenges are present in the search for a deeper understanding of ancient cacao usage in this region of Mesoamerica.

The proximate composition, functional properties, and proportion of protein fractions in a mamey sapote defatted meal (MSDM) were investigated. Additionally, a mamey sapote protein isolate (MSPI) was obtained by isoelectric precipitation from MSDM and partially characterized. MSDM had a protein content of 240.6 g/kg with the following protein distribution: glutelins (57.25%), prolamins (18.65%), albumins (17.85%) and globulins (6.25%). The maximum solubility and precipitation of MSDM proteins were found at pH 9.8 and 3.5, respectively. MSPI had a protein content of 950.9 g/kg and an in vitro digestibility of 73.6%. MSPI exhibited a lower water absorption capacity than MSDM but higher oil absorption and emulsifying capacities. The highest foam capacity (76.79%), foam (29.73%) and emulsifying (70.0%) stabilities of MSPI were obtained at pH 10. These results demonstrate that MSDM is a suitable material for the production of a high-purity protein isolate that could be used as an ingredient in meat or bakery p...

The detailed carotenoid analysis of red mamey (Pouteria sapota) was achieved by HPLC-DAD-MS, chemical tests, and cochromatography with authentic samples. Altogether 47 components were detected and 34 identified from the total extract or after fractionation with column chromatography. The main carotenoids were cryptocapsin, sapotexanthin, and capsanthin 5,6-epoxide. Some further minor components containing the κ-end group with or without a hydroxy group and their 5,6-epoxy precursors were identified. Some comments are made about the biosynthesis of κ-carotenoids in red mamey.

The ultrastructure and carotenoid-bearing structures of mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota) chromoplasts were elucidated using light and transmission electron microscopy and compared to carotenoid deposition forms in red bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) and sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka). Globular−tubular chromoplasts of sapote contained numerous lipid globules and tubules embodying unique provitamin A keto-carotenoids in a lipid-dissolved and presumably liquid-crystalline form, respectively. Bioaccessibility of sapotexanthin and cryptocapsin was compared to that of structurally related ketocarotenoids from red bell pepper and salmon. Capsanthin from bell pepper was the most bioaccessible pigment, followed by sapotexanthin and cryptocapsin esters from mamey sapote. In contrast, astaxanthin from salmon was the least bioaccessible ketocarotenoid. Thermal treatment and fat addition consistently enhanced bioaccessibility, except for astaxanthin from naturally lipidrich salmon, which remained unaffected. Although the provitamin A keto-carotenoids from sapote were highly bioaccessible, their qualitative and quantitative in vivo bioavailability and their conversion to vitamin A remains to be confirmed. Centro Agronómico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza, Universidad de Costa Rica/[]/CATIE/Costa Rica Alexander von Humboldt Foundation/[]//Germany University of Costa Rica/ [Project VI-735-B2-A16]/UCR/Costa Rica. Research Center on Microscopic Structures and the Research Vice-Rectory of the University of Costa Rica/[Project VI-810-B3-183]/CIEMIC/Costa Rica German Academic Exchange Service/[]/DAAD/Germany UCR::Vicerrectoría de Investigación::Unidades de Investigación::Ciencias Agroalimentarias::Centro para Investigaciones en Granos y Semillas (CIGRAS) UCR::Vicerrectoría de Investigación::Unidades de Investigación::Ciencias Agroalimentarias::Centro Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos (CITA) UCR::Vicerrectoría de Investigación::Unidades de Investigación::Ciencias Básicas::Centro de Investigación en Estructuras Microscópicas (CIEMIC) UCR::Vicerrectoría de Docencia::Ciencias Agroalimentarias::Facultad de Ciencias Agroalimentarias::Escuela de Tecnología de Alimentos

Sapote mamey is a highly perishable tropical fruit when stored fresh, with a shelf life of 8–10 days at room temperature. Its agreeable taste and nutritional content are valuable characteristics which can be preserved as a pulp, normally at low temperatures, to maintain initial quality. However, this type of fresh product can potentially be a substrate for pathogenic microorganisms like Listeria monocytogenes, which can survive at refrigeration temperatures. The objectives of this investigation were to determine growth, survival conditions and then establish hurdles, of L. monocytogenes inoculated into mamey pulp under different levels of ascorbic acid (0, 250, and 500 mg/kg), pH (4.0, 4.5, and >5.0), and temperature (4 and 10 °C). The observed data were fitted to the Gompertz and Baranyi models. Growth rate (μmax) and lag time (λ) of L. monocytogenes were estimated using the modified Gompertz model given that it presented a better goodness of fit and accuracy in the modeling. Growth was favored at pH >5.0. μmax decreased, whereas λ increased, as the levels of ascorbic acid and temperature increased. A pH of 4.5 hinders but does not inhibit bacterial growth, while a pH of 4.0 inhibited growth of L. monocytogenes for 15 days at both storage temperatures.

The demand for tropical fruits has increased significantly during the last decade as consumers seek healthy and more diverse food products. There is a lack of formal experimentation to determine yield performance and fruit quality traits of mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota) cultivars. Six mamey sapote cultivars (Copan, Magaña, Mayapan, Pace, Pantin, Tazumal) grown on Ultisol and Oxisol soils were evaluated for 5 years at Corozal and Isabela, PR, respectively. There was a significant difference in the number and weight of fruit per hectare between locations, averaging 25,929 fruit/ha and 16,527 kg·ha−1 at Corozal and 17,887 fruit/ha and 11,920 kg·ha−1 at Isabela. ‘Tazumal’ had the highest 5-year mean number and weight of fruit per hectare, but fruit of this cultivar was very small and contained several seeds, which could reduce its marketability. At Corozal, cultivars Tazumal and Magaña had significantly higher fruit yield per hectare than the rest of the cultivars, whereas ‘Magaña’, ‘Tazumal’, and ‘Pantín’ had the highest fruit yield at Isabela. At both locations, ‘Pantin’ had relatively high yield, above-average soluble solids concentration values, and adequate fruit size and weight for domestic and export markets (650–900 g), making this cultivar suitable for planting at various agroenvironments typical of the humid tropics.

Frutos de zapote mamey cosechados en madurez fisiológica se colocaron en recipientes de 35 L donde se aplicaron tres dosis de etefón (ácido-2-cloroetil fosfónico 0, 100 y 500 mg•L-1), durante 24 horas. Al salir del tratamiento, los frutos fueron almacenados por 0, 7, 14, 21 y 28 días a 10 °C. Al cumplir los periodos de almacenamiento se maduraron a temperatura ambiente (24 °C ± 1; 50-60 % HR) por ocho días. La maduración de los frutos tratados con o sin etefón fue homogénea. Las características de calidad no fueron afectadas negativamente por la aplicación de etefón. A los 14 días de almacenamiento a 10 °C ± 1 y ocho días a temperatura ambiente se iniciaron síntomas de daño por frío, mismos que fueron moderados y severos después de almacenarlos por 21 y 28 días a la misma temperatura. Los frutos almacenados por 21 y 28 días a 10 ± 1 °C y, dejándolos a temperatura ambiente, 24 ± 1 °C para su maduración, mostraron indicios de daños por frío e incremento en la presencia de patógenos en la pulpa, y menor contenido de sólidos solubles totales. La luminosidad disminuyó significativamente, mientras que el matiz y cromaticidad se incrementaron, en este último asociado al síntoma de daño por frío en la pulpa (lignificación y manchado). Después del almacenamiento, la respiración y producción de etileno se incrementaron significativamente, incluso en los frutos donde no se aplicó etefón, lo que sugiere que no hubo respuesta significativa al etileno exógeno en estos parámetros.

Mamey sapote ( Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H. E. Moore & Stearn) is a tropical species from the Sapotaceae family native to Mexico and Central America. Its tree produces an edible climacteric fruit, whose weight can range from 250 to 900 g. The flesh is soft, comprises about 78% of the fruit, and has high sugars to acidity ratio, which gives it a sweet taste when ripe. Because of current public interest to consume products that promote health, the aim of the work was to characterize soluble phenolic content and antioxidant activity in mamey sapote fruits from Chiapas, Mexico, at different maturity stages. Storage at 12 (± 1) °C was conducted for 18 d. When fruits ripened firmness flesh varied, in average, from 41.8 to 3.0 N, soluble solids content from 17.7 to 28.1 oBrix, hue angle from 56.4 to 46.3o, and lightness from 67.3 to 42.0. Phenolic content was affected by ripening since average values of 2563 and 234 μg/g were found in unripe and consumption maturities, respectively. In a soluble phenolics extract from flesh, gallic acid (GA), gallocatechin-3-gallate (G3G), epicatechin (ECT), and catechin (C) were found, being the latter the most abundant compound, which increased with ripening from 9.9 to 113.1 μg/g, while GA, G3G, and ECT had average values of 4.7, 11.9, and 5.8 μg/g, respectively, without significant variation. Antioxidant activity, expressed through the IC 50 parameter, remained practically unchanged and showed an average value of 12.9 μg/mL. Based on phenolic composition the mamey sapote fruit may constitute a good source of antioxidant compounds.

article i nfo Phytochemical compounds in fruits and vegetables have gained great importance in the last few years because of the increasing evidence suggesting their antioxidant and prevention of chronic diseases. Carotenoids, phenolics, flavonoids, and vitamins E and C, are among these phytochemicals. Several fruits have been characterized so far for their antioxidant and health properties but there is still limited information on fruits from the tropic. Therefore, the objective of this study was the characterization of mamey fruit (Pouteria sapota Jacq. H. E. Moore & Stearn) with regard to their antioxidant capacity and phytochemical profile. Phenolics, carotenoids and δ-tocopherol were quantified and identified by HPLC-DAD-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS), and DPPH and FRAP assays were used to evaluate antioxidant capacity. Hydrophilic extracts of mamey fruit showed higher antioxidant capacity than the lipophilic portion. Total soluble phenols content was 28.5 mg GAE/100 g fw, being p-hydroxybenzoic acid as the main phenolic that was identified. Total carotenoid content was 1127.9 μg β-carotene/100 g fw with β-carotene being the main contributor, in addition to lutein, and violoxanthin. Concentration of δ-tocopherol was 360.0 μg/100 g fw. Results of this study suggest that mamey fruit is a good source of carotenoids and its inclusion in the diet is recommended. © 2010 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

This study examined whether economically important fruit fly species Anastrepha ludens (Loew), Anastrepha serpentina (Wiedemann), and Anastrepha obliqua (Macquart) (Diptera: Tephritidae) may opportunistically exploit guavas, Psidium guajava L. (Myrtaceae), growing near preferred natural hosts. We collected 3,459 kg of guavas and 895 kg of other known host species [sour orange, Citrus aurantium L.; grapefruit, Citrus paradisi Macfadyen; mango, Mangifera indica L.; white sapote, Casimiroa edulis La Llave and Lex.; sapote, Pouteria sapota (Jacq.); sapodilla, Manilkara zapota L.; and wild plum, Spondias purpurea L. and Spondias mombin L.] along an altitudinal gradient over a 4-yr period (2006-2009). Plants were growing in sympatry in 23 localities where the guavas are usually infested in the state of Veracruz, M6xico. The guava samples yielded 20,341 Anastrepha spp. pupae in total (overall mean, 5.88 pupae per kg of fruit). Confirming previous reports, Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann) and Anastrepha striata (Schiner) were found heavily infesting guavas in Veracruz. Importantly, although we did not find evidence that A. ludens and A. serpentina are able to attack this valuable commodity, we document for the first time in the agriculturally important state of Veracruz that P. guajava is an alternative natural host plant of A. obliqua. We recovered two fruit in the mango-growing locality of la Vibora, Tlalixcoyan, that harbored larvae of A. striata and A. obliqua. This finding has important practical implications for management of A. obliqua. Over the entire altitudinal gradient, when individual fruit infestation was examined, a dynamic pattern of species dominance was unveiled with guavas growing below 800 m above sea level mainly attacked by A. striata and a progressive replacement with increasing altitude by A. fraterculus. Interestingly, most individual fruit examined (97%) harbored a single species of fruit fly, a finding that may be taken as evidence of competitive displacement among sympatric species of fruit flies. Based on this study and previously published work by us on this topic, we conclude that literature reports indicating that A. ludens and A. serpentina infest guavas under field conditions should be questioned.

The comparison of SPME fiber coatings, and optimization of temperature and time of extraction for headspace solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in Pouteria sapota (sapote mamey) fruits is presented. The PDMS/DVB coating afforded the highest extraction efficiency. The extraction conditions were optimized by using Doehlert experimental design. By using the optimized HS-SPME method, 21 VOCs were identified, which include mainly terpenoids and esters, followed by aromatic hydrocarbons, aldehydes, alcohols and ketones. The most abundant compounds in Pouteria sapota pulp were cedrol (25.0%), azulene (7.3%), β-ionone (5.7%) naphthalene (5.6%), α-pinene (5.0%), and benzaldehyde (4.3%). Seventeen VOCs were identified for the first time in the fruit.

Sapote mamey fruits in physiological maturity were harvested and covered with film plastic, another group fruits were maintained without plastic film; both fruit lots were allocated in refrigeration at 10 oC for 7, 14, or 21 d. At the end of storage periods, fruits were ripened at laboratory conditions (20 oC; 60 % HR). Respiration and ethylene production were significantly higher when fruits were maintained without plastic film in storage, and highest values were detected after 21 d in this condition. Weight loss was lesser in fruits covered with plastic film. Also, firmness, color and total sugars were retarded in fruits with plastic film. Fruits without plastic film ripen in five days. Plastic film and refrigeration at 10 oC constitute an alternative with potential to handle fruits of sapote mamey for 21 d.

Fruit culture in Michoacan is typified by the export-orientated crops avocado, mango, guava and lemon. However, there is a great diversity of plant families and species of tropical and subtropical fruits already cultivated in sparse and mixed small orchards. Specifically there is a high potential for different Sapotaceae family species with edible fruits. The objective of this research was to evaluate promising sapotaceae species for fruit production of the Centre-Western Michoacan considering aspects of geographical, ecophysiological, morphological, agronomic, and marketing parameters. The first stage of this study presents the evaluation of qualitative and quantitative characteristics of 117 trees of Mamey Sapote, Pouteria sapota [(Jacquin) H.E. Moore & Stearn] from 13 different locations within the three most representative production areas. Clusters analysis of data indicated three distinct Clusters. Cluster I included 31 genotypes from Nuevo Urecho and Apatzingan municipalities, with strongly branched, upright trees, elliptic and globose fruits with coarse woody skin, and smooth brightly red mesocarp with very sweet taste and low acidity. Cluster II included 34 genotypes with strongly branched, spreading trees with elliptic, globose and ovate fruits and smooth salmon mesocarp. Cluster III represented by 52 genotypes mostly from Ziracuaretiro and Apatzingan with low-branched, spreading trees, with small ovate and obovate fruits. Principal component analysis detected the variables more affecting Cluster differentiation. Those were fruit weight, fruit length, mesocarp and epicarp weight, seed weight, total soluble solids (TSS) content (°Brix), pH, fruit diameter, tree high, leaf length and width, branch architecture and fructification. These observations provide the first reported in-depth insights into the genetic diversity of mamey sapote for fruit production in Michoacan. They furnish the necessary informational framework for future studies in that region.

Physiological and growth responses of ‘Pantin’ and ‘Magana’ mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota) trees to continuous and cyclical flooding were studied in a series of experiments. Trees were grown in containers in a very gravelly loam soil and were subjected to continuous flooding of the root zone for 30–66 days (Experiments 1 and 2) or alternating flooding–unflooding cycles for 50 days (Experiments 3–5). For all experiments, the control treatment consisted of nonflooded trees. Net CO2 assimilation (A) and stomatal conductance (gs) decreased within 3 days of continuous flooding and internal CO2 concentration was significantly higher in leaves of flooded than nonflooded plants. In the cyclic flooding experiments, trees were flooded in 3- to 6-day cycles and then unflooded for the same time periods. Stomatal conductance and A decreased within 3 days of flooding, leaf epinasty occurred between days 5 and 10, leaf senescence and abscission occurred between days 15 and 30, and branch dieback and tree death occurred between days 30 and 60. Three cycles of 3-day flooding and 3-day recovery of trees had little effect on leaf gas exchange of ‘Magana’ trees. Similarly, ‘Pantin’ trees survived 3 cycles of 6 days of flooding interspersed with 3–6 days of recovery despite consistent decreases in gs and A during flooding. Stomatal conductance and A of both mamey sapote cultivars decreased within a few days of flooding and this species appears to have intermediate flooding tolerance compared with other tropical fruit crops based on tree survival.

Mamey (Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H.E. Moore & Stearn) is a fruit highly perishable and sensitive to chilling injury. In order to prolong the shelf-life of mamey fruits “Pardo” selection, three batches of fruit were treated with 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) in doses of 0, 600 and 900 nL L−1 and stored at 10 ± 1 °C and 80–90% RH for three periods of time (7, 14 and 21 d); afterwards, the fruits were moved to be stored at 23 ± 2 °C and 50–60% RH until they reached the edibility maturity. The results showed that fruits treated with 600 and 900 nL L−1 and stored 7 days, delayed their ripening for 3 and 6 days respectively. The fruits stored 14 days, reached ripeness with an acceptable quality after 17 and 19 days (600 and 900 nL L−1). The cold storage for 21 days caused chilling injury in fruits, characterized by spots and watery areas in the pulp, lignification of vascular bundles and irregular softening.

Los objetivos de este estudio fue evaluar la efectividad de tratamientos térmicos con aire caliente forzado húmedo en el combate de la mosca de los zapotes (Anastrepha serpentina Wiedemann) "in vivo" y determinar la tolerancia a las condiciones aplicadas de frutos de zapote mamey. Los frutos no fueron dañados internamente por el tratamiento térmico cuando fueron expuestos a 43 °C·120 min-1. Los frutos alcanzaron su madurez de consumo a los ocho días a 25 °C, presentaron cambios rápidamente en color y perdieron más peso; mientras que, a 10 °C se mantuvieron con mayor firmeza, prolongaron su vida de anaquel y mostraron mayores daños en los haces vasculares. Con respecto a la mortandad de los huevos y larvas de mosca de la fruta A. serpentina, éstas fueron del 100 % con la atmósfera controlada (CA) de aire caliente a 43 °C·120 min-1, igualmente los frutos no fueron dañados por la aplicación de la CA; las larvas murieron fácilmente por el calor a 40 °C·120 min-1, mientras que los huevos fueron más resistentes ya que ocurrieron larvas emergidas a 25 °C para los ocho días de almacenados.

Problem statement: Cold storage is needed in order to delay senescence and achieve a longer commercial life of tropical fruits like mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota), therefore, the physiological and biochemical responses of this fruit to cold storage were evaluated. Approach: Samples from different storage temperature (20, 10 and 2°C) were taken at five-day intervals and Chilling Injury Index (CII), decay (%), pulp firmness, weight loss (%), sucrose, fructose and glucose contents, electrolyte leakage (%), ethylene and carbon dioxide production rates and the activities of Peroxidase (POD), Polyphenoloxidase (PPO) and Phenylalanine Ammonia-Lyasa (PAL), were evaluated. Results: CII of fruit stored at 2 and 10°C was similar and symptoms included abnormal ripening into trimming zones close to the skin and pulp. Development of CI symptoms was more evident after 10 days of storage at 2 and 10°C. This trend may be associated with decrease of sucrose content but not with fructose that increased on fruits stored at 2°C (p

Se evaluó el almacenamiento de frutos de zapote mamey en películas plásticas para determinar su efecto en algunos cambios físicos y químicos en postcosecha. Se colectaron frutos en madurez fisiológica y se almacenaron en tres películas plásticas: Ziploc®, KleenPack® y PEAKfresh®; adicionalmente se colocaron frutos sin ninguna película plástica. Se evaluó la pérdida de peso, cambios de color (luminosidad, matiz y cromaticidad), firmeza, acidez titulable, pH, azúcares, carotenoides y fenoles totales. Los frutos testigo mostraron pérdida de peso diario de 1.9 % y maduraron ocho días después de la cosecha. Los azúcares y sólidos solubles se incrementaron durante la maduración en forma significativa; la acidez y pH no mostraron cambios significativos durante la maduración. La luminosidad y el ángulo de matiz disminuyeron durante la maduración y no se detectaron cambios significativos en la cromaticidad. Tampoco se detectaron cambios importantes en la concentración de fenoles y carotenoides totales. La utilización de películas plásticas retrasó todos los cambios observados durante la maduración de los frutos de zapote mamey, sin embargo, la película plástica KleenPack®, mostró los mejores resultados, al retrasar la maduración sin afectar significativamente la calidad de los frutos. Los resultados indicaron que es necesaria la utilización de barreras para evitar la rápida maduración y pérdida de peso en los frutos de zapote mamey en postcosecha.

Sapote mamey is a tropical tree native from Mexico and Central America that shows potential as an alternative commercial crop for tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Its fruit is a good source of nutrients and it is highly appreciated in Mexico and countries of Central and South America because of its pleasant and sweet flavour and the bright deep orange–red colour of the pulp. A clear demand for the fruit exists in these countries and has been recently reported in other countries such as Australia, Israel, Philippines and Spain. This paper reviews information on postharvest biology and technology of sapote mamey fruit published by several authors in the past 60 years and presents experimental data obtained in the last 10 years by our research group. Topics deal with postharvest handling and physiology; changes of quality attributes during ripening such as colour, total soluble solids, firmness, water content, sugars and carotenoids; diseases, insects and disorders during storage; and responses to low temperatures. The effect of controlled and modified atmospheres on the postharvest life and quality of sapote mamey is also discussed. Other postharvest treatments and technologies that have been evaluated on this fruit are also revised, including the use of ethrel, the application of the ethylene action inhibitor 1-methylcyclopropane and the effect of heat treatments for quarantine purposes and waxing to extend the storage life. Since the preservation and exchange of native material is essential for breeding studies and for making new improved varieties available for commercial production, the creation of a bank of germplasm is an idea also presented in the paper. We believe this review will serve as a useful reference for those studying and investigating postharvest aspects of sapote mamey fruit. Hopefully, it will also encourage future research to preserve the quality, minimize postharvest loses and increase the demand for this pleasant and exotic fruit.

Genotypes of sapote mamey, Pouteria sapota [(Jacquin) H.E. Moore & Stearn] from central-western Michoacán in Mexico were characterized based on physical and chemical fruit characteristics. Cluster analysis of data indicated seven distinct genotype clusters. The greatest variability among clusters was attributed to physical and chemical fruit characteristics. Those were fruit weight, length, width, shape and texture; the ratio of fruit weight to seed weight; seed weight and length; mesocarp thickness and weight; epicarp weight; and the compositional components titratable acidity (TA), protein, total soluble solids (TSS), TSS to TA ratio and TSS to pH ratio. Canonical discriminant analysis was a used to identify the most desirable sapote mamey fruits based on physical (fruit and mesocarp weight) and compositional parameters. Two canonical discriminant functions explained >90% of the accumulated variation a mong the seven clusters of genotypes. Fruit weight, mesocarp thickness, and the ratio of total soluble solids to titratable acidity were dominant in the first function; and fruit weight and mesocarp thickness were dominant in the second. These morphological variables could be used for selecting sapote mamey trees with uniform fruit quality for either direct consumption or processing. Key words: Sapotaceae, sapote mamey, Pouteria sapota, cluster analysis, canonical discriminant analysis, fruit, morphological characterization

The authors evaluated the host status of mamey sapote, Pouteria sapota (Sapotaceae) to Anastrepha obliqua by collecting mature fruits and monitoring them for the emergence of larval Tephritidae. Fruits were also scarred and placed in cages with female A. obliqua and monitored for the emergence of larvae and adults. Multi-lure traps baited with putrescine and ammonium acetate were used to compare the number of flies in orchards of mamey sapote to the number of flies in nearby orchards of carambola (Averrhoa carambola: Oxalidaceae). There are a number of references citing mamey sapote as a host of A. obliqua in different countries. However, we only found two unidentified tephritid larva from 1,160 mamey sapote fruits collected in the field and these fly larvae did not survive to adulthood. We were not able to rear adult A. obliqua on scarred, mature fruit of mamey sapote, whereas we were able to do so on mango under identical conditions. Abundance in orchards based on trapping indicates that flies are very rarely encountered in orchards of mamey sapote compared with orchards of carambola. We conclude that in Puerto Rico mamey sapote has a very low (undetectable) rate of infestation by fruit flies in the family Tephritidae.

The chemical composition of the waste from mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota) and its oil extracted from the seed (MSSO) of ripe and unripe fruits, was studied. The MSSO from ripe fruits was dry-fractionated, and the thermal and phase behaviors of its fractions and their mixtures with other known natural fats were analyzed. The main components of the mamey peel and the seed were crude fiber (81.32%) and fat (44.41% db), respectively. The seed oil contained oleic, stearic, palmitic and linoleic as its main fatty acids. The MSSO showed a simple thermal behavior with a broad fusion range and four maximum temperature peaks. The solid fractions showed maximum melting peaks at higher temperatures than the residual liquid. The MSSO solid fractions showed a potential for use as constituents in mixtures with other natural fats, such as cocoa butter or mango seed fat.Se estudió la composición de los residuos del zapote mamey (Pouteria sapota) y del aceite extraído de la semilla (ASZM) de frutos maduros e inmaduros. El ASZM de frutos maduros fue fraccionado en seco y se analizó la conducta térmica y de fase de las fracciones y mezclas de éstas con otras grasas naturales conocidas. Los principales componentes de la cáscara y de la semilla fueron fibra cruda (81.32% bs) y grasa (44.41% bs), respectivamente. Los principales ácidos grasos del ASZM fueron: oleico, esteárico, palmítico y linoleico y mostró una conducta térmica simple con un intervalo de fusión amplio y cuatro máximos de temperatura. Las fracciones sólidas obtenidas presentaron máximos de fusión a temperaturas más altas que la fracción líquida residual. Las fracciones sólidas del ASZM mostraron potencialidad para usarse como constituyente en mezclas con la manteca de cacao y la grasa de la semilla de mango.

Crude preparations obtained from mamey (Pouteria sapota), capulin (Prunus serotina var. capulli) and peach (Prunus persica) leaves were used to catalyze the enantioselective addition of HCN to a variety of aldehydes. The corresponding cyanohydrins were obtained with high levels of enantioselectivity, comparable with those obtained with other catalysts used for the same purpose.

Mamey (Pouteria sapota) defatted meal was used to catalyze the enantioselective addition of HCN to α,β-unsaturated aldehydes. Using a biphasic system of diisopropyl ether and citrate buffer (0.1 M, pH 5.0, 10% v/v), the (R)-cyanohydrins obtained showed good conversion (from 54 to 98%) and enantiomeric excess (from 74 to 99%).

Sapote mamey fruit (Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H.E. Moore and Stearn) is very sensitive to infestation with fruit flies, especially with Anastrepha serpentina. There is no quarantine treatment used in Mexico for this fruit, and therefore its entrance to many national and international markets is restricted. In this work we have investigated the effect of forced hot air treatments on insect mortality and on the quality of the fruit. Fruits were exposed to different hot air treatments at 40, 43, 45, 46 or 50oC for 120, 150 or 180 minutes, and were then stored at 10oC or 25oC for up to 15 days. Larvae and eggs mortality was achieved at 43oC for 120 minutes. Lower temperature (40oC for 120 minutes) was effective in causing the mortality of larvae, but not of eggs. Heat treatment at 43oC for 120 minutes did not cause fruit injury, and caused the least loss in firmness, fruit mass, and color. However, hot air treatments at 50oC caused fruit injury and significant losses in texture, fruit mass and color.

A linear-plateau model was used to describe the changes in soluble solids content (SSC) of sapote mamey [ Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H.E. Moore and Stearn] fruit over time as affected by ripening temperature. The model assumed that, as fruit ripened, SSC increased at a linear rate reaching a maximum (30% SSC) at the ripe stage after which SSC changed little. The rate of fruit ripening and the time to reach the ripe stage were calculated from the model. The rate of ripening increased steadily with increases in storage temperature. Fruit kept at 28, 25, 20, 15 and 10 °C ripened 3.5, 5, 7, 15 and 30 days after harvest, respectively. Temperature quotients ( Q 10 ) for fruit ripening decreased with increasing storage temperature. The model shows that shelf life of sapote mamey can be significantly extended by cool storage. The model can be used to estimate the time for fruit to reach the ripe stage, as long as the initial SSC and storage temperatures are known.

Sapote mamey is an important tropical fruit of Mexico. However during the harvest season high incidence of postharvest fungi are present. Isolations of infected fruit in 1998 and 1999 indicated Pestalotia and Botryodiplodia as the main postharvest fungi. Percentage infection significantly varied according to harvest date for both 1998 and 1999. In 1988 percentage infection decreased from 65% to 20% as fruit ripening increased while in 1999 fruit infection varied from 100% to 10%. Infection caused by Botryodiplodia was more frequent.

From the ripe fruits of red mamey (Pouteria sapota) sapotexanthin, a new carotenoid, was identified as (all-E,5'R)-β,κ-caroten-6'-one.

Chemical insecticides have been the main way to control synanthropic flies of medical and veterinary importance; however, residuals of these products have become a factor impacting on the environment, as well as the potential toxicological that they may cause damage to humans and domestic animals. Phytochemical screening carried out with the aqueous crude extract of Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H.E. Moore & Stearn, Sapotaceae, leaves showed that coumarins, reducing sugars, flavonoids and cyanogenic glycosides were its most abundant metabolites. This study evaluated the activity of the crude aqueous extract of this plant on the post-embryonic development of Chrysomya putoria. Larvae treated with 5, 10 and 25% extract showed a decrease in the pupal period and in the newly-hatched larvae to adult period when compared to the control groups. Larvae from the 25% extract group were the lightest (45.8 mg) when compared with the control group (46.5 mg). The larval and newly-hatched larvae to adult stages were more sensitive to the leaf extract from P. sapota (5%) and the treated flies showed the low viability (47.5 and 45.5% respectively). The results demonstrated that topic treatment with P. sapota could alter C. putoria post embryonic development. Keywords: Sapotaceae, Myiasis, Biological control, Blowfly

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of potential insect disinfestation hot water treatments (HWT) on sapote mamey fruit ripening and quality. The center of a 0.50 kg fruit took ∼45 min to reach the water temperature (40–60°C). Once the center of the fruit reached the water temperature, fruit were held for an additional 40–60 min in the water. After immersion, fruit were allowed to dry and were held in storage at 25°C for 4–6 days. Fruit treated at 40 or 45°C showed no significant changes in quality, while fruit treated at 50°C for 60 min ripened irregularly and had flesh with white and dark colorations. Fruit treated at 60°C for 60 min ripened more slowly and had no skin or flesh symptoms of heat injury, but had lower soluble solids and pH, higher firmness and slightly higher water loss than untreated fruit. The 60°C heated fruit also showed a lesser degree of flesh browning than untreated fruit. A panel of untrained judges found no significant difference in taste or aroma. Judges did give a higher score for the flesh color of fruit treated at 60°C compared with that of untreated fruit as there was less flesh browning and a firmer flesh relative to untreated fruit. Sapote mamey fruit subjected to 60°C HWT for 60 min had relatively minor effects on fruit quality and a delayed ripening. Hot water treatments may have potential as an insect disinfestation treatment for sapote mamey.

This paper documents ethnoveterinary medicines used to treat dogs in Trinidad and Tobago. In 1995, a 4-stage process was used to conduct the research and document the ethnoveterinary practices. Twenty-eight ethnoveterinary respondents were identified using the school-essay method, which is a modified rapid rural appraisal (RRA) technique. Semi-structured interviews were held with these respondents as well as with 30 veterinarians, 27 extension officers and 19 animal-health assistants and/or agricultural officers, and the seven key respondents that they identified. The final step involved hosting four participatory workshops with 55 of the respondents interviewed to discuss the ethnoveterinary data generated from the interviews and to determine dosages for some of the plants mentioned. Supplementary interviews were conducted in 1997 and 1998. Seeds of Carica papaya, and leaves of Cassia alata, Azadirachta indica, Gossypium spp., Cajanus cajan and Chenopodium ambrosiodes are used as anthelmintics. The anthelmintics Gossypium spp. and Chenopodium ambrosiodes are the most frequently used species. Crescentia cujete pulp, Musa spp. stem exudate, the inside of the pods of Bixa orellana, leaves of Cordia curassavica and Eclipta alba plant tops are used for skin diseases. Musa spp. stem exudate, seeds of Manilkara zapota, Pouteria sapota and Mammea americana and leaves of Cordia curassavica, Scoparia dulcis and Nicotiana tabacum are used to control ectoparasites. Dogs are groomed with the leaves of Cordia curassavica, Bambusa vulgaris and Scoparia dulcis. Psidium guajava buds and leaves and the bark of Anacardium occidentale are used for diarrhoea. Owners attempt to achieve milk let-down with a decoction of the leaves of Stachytarpheta jamaicensis. The plant uses parallel those practised in human folk medicine in other Caribbean countries and in other tropical countries.

The effect of low temperature on maturation of sapote mamey fruits (Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H.E. Moore and Stearn) was determi-ned. The fruits were stored at 20°C, 12°C, 5°C and 5°C + 2°C different times with 20°C mgliter1 por 24 h of ethylene. The variables evaluated were: ethylene production, respiration rate, weigth loss, total sugars and enzimatic activity of poliphenoloxidase and cata-lase. In the first three treatments a climateric pattern was observed, fruits stored at 20°C, 12°C and 5°C being this abnormal in ex-posed fruits at 5°C where a lower accumulation of total sugars was obtained, attributed to chilling injury. Symptons of chilling dam-age were observed as stains and hard tissue in the pulp of fruits stored at 5°C + 2°C. Differences in losses of weight were found among treatments. The activity of catalase was inhibited during the storage at low temperature, incresing it later during maturation. Polyphenoloxidase incresed in more proportion in treatments where fruits were exposed at 5°C + 2°C, confirming that this enzyme is related with dimness of pulp of sapote mamey fruits at these temperatures.

"Se trabajó con fruta de mamey (Pouteria sapota) durante dos ciclos productivos (febrero, 96-mayo, 97 y febrero, 97-mayo, 98). El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar algunos cambios que ocurren durante el desarrollo y postcosecha del fruto del mamey. Las variables de respuesta fueron: respiración, pérdida de peso, color de la pulpa (índice de color, IC), firmeza, sólidos solubles totales (sst), acidez (ácido málico), humedad y azúcares. Las evaluaciones se realizaron al momento de la cosecha y después de 7 días de almacenamiento en condiciones ambientales. Los frutos cosechados después de 400 días después de la floración (DDF) presentaron las siguientes características: color de la pulpa amarillo-rojizo a rojo (IC=6-16; 55-65 N de firmeza; 10-12 % de sst, 0.15-0.20% de ácido málico, 67-72 % de humedad y 3-4.5 %. de azúcares totales. Después de 7 días, las características fueron: el patrón respiratorio fue del tipo climatérico (3-5 días después de la cosecha) con una producción máxima de 121.5 ml.kg-1 h-1 de CO2 (23±2°C, 50 % H.R.) y las pérdidas de peso fueron de 10-14.6 %. El color de la pulpa fue rojo (IC=12-21.5); 3-12 N de firmeza; 25-34 % de sst, 0.14-0.20 % de ácido málico; 63-67 % de humedad; 20-22 % de azúcares totales (los azúcares no reductores representaron más del 70 %)."

Flowering and fruit set characteristics were examined in the popular commercial cultivar, Magana, in an effort to elucidate the reproductive phenology of mamey sapote, Calocarpum sapota (Jacq.) Merr. [syn. Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H.E. Moore and Stearn]. Flowers opened during the night with anthesis beginning around sunset. The length of floral opening varied according to season, ranging from 6 days in winter to a single day in summer. Bursts of new flowers generally appeared in cycles of about 7 days in declining numbers of flowers per burst until all the floral buds of a particular floral bud flush had flowered. Floral buds flowered randomly along a branch with only a few flowers open at any one time. Flower position around the branch was a factor in fruit set. Flowers and small fruitlets encircled horizontal branches in great numbers, but immature fruit most often developed from flowers located on the upper branch quadrant. The lower quadrant contained the fewest immature fruit. As fruit matured, however, more upper quadrant fruit abscised until by harvest, most mature fruit were found on the lower quadrant. These observations provide the first reported in-depth insights into the flowering and fruit set behavior of mamey sapote. They furnish the necessary informational framework for future studies.

Tropical forests continue to be deforested because forest owners believe they can earn more income through land uses involving forest conversion. A case study in a Mexican rainforest revealed that enrichment planting with the native tree species Pouteria sapota (‘mamey’) is a management approach that can increase the commercial value of the forest enough to compete with these destructive land uses. Depending on the land value, planting more than 40‐200 seedlings per hectare into the natural forest is expected to have a higher net present value than one hectare of existing cattle pasture. To arrive at this conclusion, we were able to project long-term tree growth and fruit production from a few years’ increment measurements, based on a new method for estimating ages of tropical trees without annual growth rings. This approach facilitates rather rapid cost-benefit analysis of tropical forest management with native species. © 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Through seed dispersal and predation, terrestrial mammals should be an important component of the mecha- nisms that determine patterns of tree recruitment in tropical forests. Despite their great abundance and ubiquity in Neo- tropical forests, small rodents as seed predators and dispersers remain largely forgotten. To investigate the fates of seeds in a hunted primary forest in Belize, we tagged seeds ofAstrocaryum mexicanum (Palmae), Ampelocera hottlei (Ulmaceae), and Pouteria sapota (Sapotaceae) and placed them into open plots, exclosures accessible only to small mammals, and exclosures accessible to medium-sized and small mammals. The exclosure experiments and fates of the seeds show that the spiny pocket mouse, Heteromys desmarestianus (Heteromyidae), was the dominant handler of seeds of the first two species and also removed a significant proportion of the very large-seeded Pouteria. Most of the seeds were killed immediately upon removal, but many of the seeds (3 - 18 %) of the first two species were scatterhoarded (dispersed and buried in the soil) by Heteromys. Some of the scatterhoarded seeds (29 %) remain buried and therefore protected from predation by other animals. Agoutis (Dasyprocta punctata), a caviomorph rodent, buried 13 % of the seeds of Pouteria, and Heteromys consumed and dispersed but did not bury Pouteria seeds. Results of this study support predictions by some researchers that small rodents are dominant terrestrial granivores in Neotropical forests. The role of small rodents as seed dispersers, however, has never been fully appreciated.

In Cuba, fruit-fly control is traditional and is sustained by phytosanitary regulations. Recent surveys have shown that Anastrepha obliqua and Anastrepha suspensa attack various fruits, especially guava and mango, whereas Toxotrypana curvicauda attacks papaya. New host plants are reported for Cuba: A. obliqua on coffee, peach and Pouteria sapota and A. suspensa on Spondias mombin and S. ciruela. Their occurrence was only occasional, and neither of these species was found on citrus. Populations of A. obliqua and A. suspensa were relatively low on guava and mango, occurring mostly in the months of May to September. Five causes are suggested for the relatively low incidence of fruit flies in Cuba: efficient natural regulation by Bracanastrepha anastrephae; predation of larvae by ants in the soil; high mortality of pupae because of surface soil temperature and generalist predators; the cropping system; and the phytosanitary control programme (with preventive approach). The results of the control programme are presented, especially for areas intended for fresh-fruit export.

The performance of 10 fruit species, namely pomegranate (Punica granatum), guava (Psidium guajava), sapota (Achras japota), baelpather (Aegle marmelos), amla (Emblica officinalis), ber (Zizyphus mauritiana), karaunda (Carissa carandas), date palm (Phoenix dactyleform), jamun (Syzygium cuminii) and imli (Tamarindus indica), as affected by site preparation and amendment use, was evaluated in a replicated field trial established in 1992 in a highly alkali soil (pH 10·5) at the Bichhian experimental farm of the Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal. The treatments involved two site preparation methods: (1) augerholes of 20–25 cm diameter and 160–180 cm deep made in the centre of 45 cm×45 cm pits in the main plot and (2) pits of 90 cm×90 cm×90 cm; variable amendments composition in the subplot and fruit species in the sub-subplots. Growth observations recorded 26 months after planting showed that survival, height and girth of all species remained unaffected owing to site preparation techniques and amendment use. Irrespective of planting techniques and amendment use, jamun, guava, ber and imli performed best. Date palm and baelpather performed poorly. Initial growth of sapota was satisfactory, but it was found highly sensitive to frost. Similarly, pomegranate which was performing exceedingly well was found very sensitive to prolonged water stagnation. This 3-year study indicated that out of 10 species tried, about half a dozen fruit plants can be established in alkali soils after following appropriate site preparation methods and better management practices. Established species came to bearing between 18 and 24 months after planting, but the fruits were damaged by prolonged water stagnation during the monsoon season and chilling temperatures of the 1994–95 winter. This study further indicated that the augerhole method of root bed preparation, is an economical, less laborious and faster way of planting fruit trees than is the pit method. The experiment will be continued to study treatment effects on fruit production and quality before making final recommendations. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

New carotenoids, cryptocapsin-5,6-epoxide, 3′-deoxycapsanthin-5,6-epoxide, and cryptocapsin-5,8-epoxides, have been isolated from the ripe fruits of red mamey (Pouteria sapota). Cryptocapsin-5,6-epoxide was prepared by partial synthesis via epoxidation of cryptocapsin, and the (5R,6S)- and (5S,6R)-stereoisomers were identified by HPLC-ECD analysis. Spectroscopic data of the natural (anti) and semisynthetic (syn) derivatives obtained by acid-catalyzed rearrangement of cryptocapsin-5,8-epoxide stereoisomers were compared for structural elucidation. Chiral HPLC separation of natural and semisynthetic samples of cryptocapsin-5,8-epoxides was performed, and HPLC-ECD analysis allowed configurational assignment of the separated stereoisomers.

Dieback of sapote mamey [Pouteria sapota (Jacq.) H. E. Moore and Stearn] grafts caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae significantly reduces the success of grafting in Mexican nurseries. Semi-commercial tests were conducted in a sapote mamey nursery during two grafting seasons to evaluate the effectiveness of a physical treatment (washing) and three chemical treatments (fungicide dip) on scions. Washing reduced disease incidence up to 31 %, whereas chemical treatment reduced it up to 62 %. The combination of washing and thiabendazole dip resulted in an incidence decrease of 81 %. Twelve other fungicides were screened in vitro to evaluate mycelial growth inhibition of L. theobromae. The pre-formulated mix of cyprodinil + fludioxinil was the most effective fungicide with EC50 value of 0.0043 μg mL-1, followed by pyraclostrobin + boscalid, prochloraz and tebuconazole with EC50 values < 0.1 μg mL-1, and iprodione and thiabendazole with EC50 values < 1.0 μg mL-1. This study provides novel information about strategies for controlling L. theobromae infection during the grafting process of sapote mamey and it also showed the effectiveness of several fungicides under in vitro conditions for controlling this plant pathogenic fungus.

Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) is the enzyme responsible for quality loss in most fruits and vegetables. Quality loss is mainly because of oxidative chemical reactions which generate the darkening of tissues. Mamey fruit (Pouteria sapota) after harvesting suffers a rapid quality decay trough activation of PPO. However, PPO may be inactivated in situ by chemical or thermal treatment. In food processing, microwave treatment (MT) has been used recently as an alternative for PPO inactivation. In this study, it was observed that mamey fruit pulp subjected to a gently MT resulted in a higher PPO activity as the generated heat induced in situ the increase in PPO activity. In contrast, PPO was completely inactivated after long MT by using a high microwave power. Temperature in mamey pulp after MT reached a maximum of 79 °C; although PPO was active up to 60 °C. PPO was completely inactivated when conventional blanching treatment was performed but required a higher temperature (92 °C/300 s). The optimum energy intensity (E(opt)) for PPO inactivation by MT was 0.51 kJ/g or 937 W/165 s. Under this condition, the remaining PPO activity was inversely proportional to energy intensity (E). Interestingly, MT resulted in a negligible damage in microstructure of mamey pulp, although blanching treatment resulted in large damaging effects on tissue organization and shape. Therefore, MT is proposed as an effective way to completely inactivate PPO without causing any significant damage to fruit tissues and shape; as preservation of color, flavor, and taste would be favored.

From the ripe fruits of red mamey (Pouteria sapota), two new carotenoids, 3′-deoxycapsorubin and 3,3′-dideoxycapsorubin, were isolated and identified based on their UV/VIS, CD, 1H-NMR, and mass spectral data.