Productivity and phytochemical potential of selected hot pepper varieties cultivated in Tanzania

Hot pepper is a crucial horticultural crop for small-scale farmers in Tanzania, driven by rising demand in domestic and export markets. A study conducted from March to September 2021 evaluated the growth, yield, and bioactive compound concentrations in various hot pepper (Capsicum spp.) varieties cultivated at the Botany Department Research Farm, University of Dar es Salaam. The results highlighted significant differences among the varieties. Big Red Cayenne (BRC) was the tallest plant and had the highest yield per hectare (5360 kg). It also had the highest single fruit weight (14.89 g). In contrast, the CCP variety recorded the highest number of fruits per plant (404). Nutritional analysis of ripe-fruit extracts revealed substantial variations in vitamin C, beta-carotene, lycopene, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC). The Orange Bird Eye variety had the highest vitamin C (948.30 ± 22.6 mg/100g) and beta-carotene (0.62 ± 0.006 mg/100 ml) concentrations. BRC exhibited the highest lycopene (0.55 ± 0.0003 mg/100 ml), TPC (454.247 ± 20.9 mg GAE/100g), and TFC (8.92 ± 0.15 mg RE/100g) concentrations, contributing to its highest radical scavenging capacity. Overall, BRC outperformed other varieties in growth and yield, followed by Orange Habanero (OH) and Red Habanero (RH). The study suggests that BRC, OH, and RH varieties are ideal for commercial cultivation in similar ecological conditions. Additionally, BRC's high levels of antioxidants and bioactive compounds make it a promising candidate for developing nutraceuticals and health food products, benefiting the food and pharmaceutical industries, as well as consumers and producers