EXPLORING THE PHYSICAL, CHEMICAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF PINEAPPLE PEEL AND CROWN

This study systematically evaluated the physical, chemical, mineral, functional, and colour characteristics of powders derived from pineapple (Ananas comosus) peel and crown. During pineapple processing, approximately 26-32% of the fruit mass is discarded as peel and crown, which is typically disposed of in the open environment, thereby contributing to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Comprehensive analyses revealed that both pineapple peel and crown powders are rich sources of dietary fiber and minerals, with potential for value addition. Specifically, dietary fiber content was determined to be 42.23±0.15% in pineapple peel powder and 66.89±0.47% in crown powder. The crown powder exhibited higher concentrations of essential minerals, including calcium, magnesium, zinc, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, compared to the peel powder. Colour analysis indicated favorable consumer acceptance, with L*, a*, and b* values for pineapple peel powder recorded at 66.01±0.57, 7.34±0.01, and 24.90±0.01, respectively, and for crown powder at 62.23±0.03, 2.60±0.02, and 24.21±0.02, respectively. The findings suggest that pineapple peel and crown powders represent valuable raw materials for the development of sustainable packaging, plant nutrient enhancers, biofertilizers, and fortification agents in cattle feed, thereby promoting waste valorization and environmental sustainability