Desenvolvimento de snack sabor pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.)

Abstract

Pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) is one of the most emblematic fruits of the Brazilian Cerrado and is widely used in cuisine. Its intensely yellow pulp is rich in carotenoids and fatty acids. Fruits from the Brazilian Cerrado have stood out as excellent options for the nutritional enrichment of various products in the food industry, due to their nutritional profile and the potential antioxidant effects of their bioactive compounds. In this context, snacks emerge as a practical and convenient option, meeting demands for ease of consumption and, in some cases, healthfulness. This study aimed to develop a snack formulation enriched with different concentrations of pequi pulp (26%, 27%, and 28%) and to assess the effect of this incorporation on nutritional properties/characteristics. Additionally, a nutritional table was developed according to current legislation, along with a potential package for product storage and marketing, and a cost analysis of the formulations created. Regarding appearance, the snack showed a darker color as the concentration of pequi pulp increased. Results from the proximate analysis indicated no significant differences in moisture content (~2.75%), but there was an increase in lipid content (25.35%–34.57%), ash (2.74%–3.23%), and protein (7.65%–9.32%). This behavior was also reflected in the variation of the caloric value (504.26 kcal – 550.36 kcal), with the pulp-enriched formulations showing higher energy values compared to the control product. This result was associated with the incorporation of pequi pulp, as this Cerrado fruit may contain significant levels of macronutrients and contribute to modifying the composition of the developed formulations. Regarding production cost, the formulations with pequi pulp showed small variations (approximately R$1.48 per 70g of the final product), suggesting potential feasibility for development depending on market strategy and target audience. As for the developed packaging, the product label was designed to attract consumer attention, highlighting its market innovation with vibrant colors and the image of pequi on the package. The results demonstrate that snack production is feasible, offering the market a competitive alternative in terms of price and quality.