Caracterización físico-química de la placenta de cacao nacional y ccn-51 de la provincia de El Oro

Abstract

The present study focuses on the physicochemical characterization of the placenta of Nacional and CCN-51 cacao from the province of El Oro, Ecuador. Using UV-vis spectrophotometry, the levels of total polyphenols, reducing sugars and vitamin C were analyzed in samples collected from five different locations. The results revealed significant variations in the levels of these bioactive compounds according to the locality of origin, with Atahualpa and El Guabo standing out for their high levels of sugars and vitamin C, respectively. In addition, it was observed that CCN-51 has higher concentrations of sugars and polyphenols compared to Nacional cocoa, while the latter contains more vitamin C. The research also highlights the influence of climatic and geographical conditions on the physicochemical composition of cocoa placenta, which has important implications for its industrial utilization. The high contents of antioxidant compounds in cocoa placenta position it as a valuable source for the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry, as well as for the development of nutritional supplements and food products. Statistical analyses validated the accuracy and reliability of the data obtained, with high coefficients of determination (R²) for all parameters analyzed. This supports the robustness of the findings and their potential application in future research and industrial settings. The study suggests the need to explore and develop new products incorporating cocoa placenta extracts, optimize agricultural practices according to geographical and climatic conditions, and promote sustainable practices in the cocoa industry. Furthermore, it is recommended that the study be extended to other regions and that additional research be conducted on the functional properties and health benefits of the bioactive compounds present in the cocoa placenta.