date palm biodiversity of the Adrar region Mauritania: physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity some varieties

This study evaluated the physico-chemical properties of the pulps of 28 date cultivars harvested at the Tmar stage in three oases of the Mauritanian Adrar (2010-2011 seasons), across 13 parameters. Statistical analyses revealed significant variability between cultivars, irrespective of their geographical origin, reflecting wide physico-chemical diversity. The most discriminating parameters were water content, sugars, ash, calcium and magnesium. In addition, the phenolic compounds, flavonoids and antioxidant activity of six varieties were compared at the Blah and Tmar stages. Polyphenol content, flavonoid content and antioxidant activity were highest at the Blah stage, with a strong positive correlation between total polyphenols and antioxidant activity. Finally, ripening monitoring showed a gradual decrease in phenolic compounds and soluble tannins, with maximum values observed in the Amsakhsi, Tiguidert and Bezoul varieties.