Evaluation of nutritional compositions, Physical properties, functional characteristics and Biochemical properties of formulated Melon Manis Terengganu peel powder

Melon seeds and peels are common by-products generated by the fruit processing industry. Melon Manis Terengganu (MMT) contained 28-30% of the peel which remained underutilized for their efficient valorization. Hence, this study aimed to develop formulated MMT peel powder besides evaluating its nutritional composition and physicochemical properties. The MMT peel was formulated with other ingredients such as sweetener, carboxy methyl cellulose, citric acid, and orange flavoring. Two formulations were produced, namely Formulation 0 (100% MMT peel powder) and Formulation 3 (40% MMT peel powder), which were subjected to several analyses performed according to standard methods. The analyses were proximate compositions, total dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, physical properties, functional characteristics, and biochemical properties. The difference between the two formulations was compared using an independent t-test. The results demonstrated that Formulation 0 had significantly higher nutritional composition compared to Formulation 3 except for carbohydrate content. Besides, significantly greater water activity, functional properties, and acidity were observed in Formulation 0. In contrast, Formulation 3 had significantly higher total soluble solids than Formulation 0. In conclusion, Formulation 0 had superior nutritional composition and physicochemical properties compared to Formulation 3, except for carbohydrate content. The findings might be important in delivering health benefits to consumers upon consumption of the different formulated MMT peel powders.