Physico-chemical, nutritional and functional characterization of Pathernakh pear (Pyrus pyrifolia L.) from Himachal Pradesh of India

The present study was conducted to evaluate the physico-chemical, nutritional and functional properties of pathernakh pear grown in Himachal Pradesh. The physical properties (weight, length, width and colour), chemical and nutritional properties of the pathernakh pear including moisture, ash, total sugar, reducing sugar and minerals of pathernakh pear were studied. Moreover, the pear variety was characterized for functional components with respect to total phenols, ascorbic acid and fiber analysis. The results indicated that the fruit is a good supplier of sugars, minerals, ascorbic acid and polyphenols. The edible portion of the fruit possess a high level of fiber content. Additionally, textural properties in terms of firmness of the fruit were also studied. The overall results concluded that pathernakh pear could be best for consumption owing to superior nutritional and functional properties that has many health benefits.