Proximate composition, mineral content and functional properties of Tarap (Artocarpus odoratissimus) seed flour

Tarap seed (Artocarpus odoratissimus) is one of the popular snacks among Borneo Island people especially in Sabah, Malaysia. Their flesh and seed are such a potential food source but they are not fully exploited. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine its nutritional composition, mineral content and functional properties of Tarap seed flour (TSF). The proximate analysis (protein, carbohydrate, fat, crude fiber, ash, moisture), minerals content and functional properties (powder particle size, bulk density, oil and water absorption capacity, emulsion capacity, foaming ability, least gelling concentration, swelling ability and pasting properties) were determined. The proximate analysis results obtained showed that TSF had 49.65% carbohydrate, 15.60% crude fat, 12.3% crude fibers, 8.8% crude protein, 1.17 % ash and 12.5% moisture. Most abundant mineral found in Tarap flour was potassium, followed by magnesium, calcium, and natrium. The results showed that TSF has an average particle size of 166.02μm with low bulk density (0.57g/cm3) as compared to wheat flour. Water and oil absorption capacities of TSF were 2.61 and 1.69g/g, respectively, while the efficiency of emulsification was 14.8%. Least gelation concentration was found to be 12% while foaming ability was 7%. Swelling ability results showed a steady increment from 60°C to 70°C but sharp increased observed from 70°C to 80°C. From the results presented, it can be concluded that TSF has a great potential for use in the formulation of composite flours to be used as ingredients in the food industry.