Carotenoids and carotenoid esters, by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS, in pulp of pequi (Caryocar brasiliense Camb.) native to different regions of the Brazilian Savanna and correlation with color parameters

The pulp of pequi ( C. brasiliense Camb.), a fruit native to the Brazilian Savanna (Cerrado), is recognized as a remarkable source of carotenoids; however, studies on its carotenoid composition remain scarce and inconclusive. This study aimed to analyze the color attributes and carotenoid profile (by HPLC-DAD-MS/MS) of the pequi pulp of five different samples from four States of the Cerrado: Tocantins (TO, pale yellow [TO py ] and yellow [TO y ]), Mato Grosso (MT), Minas Gerais (MG), and Goiás (GO). The total carotenoid contents exhibited a positive correlation with the pulp’s color parameters (a*, b*, and C) of the pulp. Non-saponified extracts combined with mass spectrophotometry proved effective for the identification and quantification of 22 different carotenoids, and their esters, in the pulp of pequi. The TO y pulp contained notably high levels of free zeaxanthin, whereas samples from MT, MG and GO displayed elevated concentrations of lutein, violaxanthin, and zeaxanthin esters. This study represents the first comprehensive characterization of the carotenoid profile of C. brasiliense pulps from different regions of the Cerrado, and to document the occurrence of xanthophyll esters the presence of xanthophyll esters in pequi pulp. These findings provide new insights into the chemical diversity of a valued native fruit to the Cerrado, contributing to bioactive compound databases and supporting the sustainable use of regional biodiversity. The detailed carotenoid and xanthophyll ester profiles established here also offers a foundation for future studies on carotenoid bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and technological applications in functional foods. • First report on xanthophyll esters in pequi ( Caryocar brasiliense ) pulp. • Total carotenoids vary by native area and correlate with pulp color. • HPLC-DAD-MS/MS enabled identify free and esterified carotenoids. • Main pulp’s compounds: β-cryptoxanthin, and lutein, violaxanthin, zeaxanthin esters.