QUALITY EVALUATION AND VALUE ADDITION PROSPECTS OF LOCAL APRICOT (PRUNUS ARMENIACA) CULTIVARS GROWN IN DISTRICT SHIGAR, GILGIT-BALTISTAN, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of the fruit quality of local apricot cultivars (Prunus armeniaca) grown in District Shigar, Skardu–Baltistan, Pakistan. The primary objective was to assess the physicochemical characteristics of seven widely cultivated apricot varieties from the region. Data were recorded for physical parameters including fresh weight, dry weight, length, and width, as well as proximate and chemical attributes such as moisture content, ash content, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, titratable acidity, total sugars, crude fat, crude fiber, and protein content. The results (mean of three replicates) revealed significant variation among the cultivars. Halman exhibited the highest TSS (19°Brix), whereas Zochaq recorded the lowest (11°Brix). The highest moisture content (95.5%) was observed in Kho Chuli, while Zochaq showed the lowest moisture level (75.5%). Although apricot fruits generally contained low fat levels, Yaqkar had the highest crude fat content (0.24%), and Zochaq had the lowest (0.09%). Crude fiber was highest in Halman (12.86%) and lowest in Zochaq (7.26%). Interestingly, despite lower values for several attributes, Zochaq exhibited the highest ash content (1.35%), while the minimum ash content (0.97%) was recorded in Marghulam. Further variability was observed in other quality traits. Yaqkar showed the highest protein content (0.89%), whereas Halman had the lowest (0.45%). Hawalapa recorded the highest total sugar content (7.88%), while Kho Chuli had the lowest (4.47%). Total acidity was highest in Karfo (0.83%) and lowest in Hawalapa (0.31%). Due to its favorable sugar-to-acid ratio (25.42), Hawalapa was selected for candy preparation. Organoleptic evaluation of the developed apricot candy indicated high consumer acceptability and overall preference.