Chemical Compositions and Sugar Profiles of Consumed Chestnut Cultivars in the Marmara Region, Turkey

Abstract

In this study, the chemical compositions and sugar profiles of seventeen local cultivars and two foreign chestnut hybrids, grown in the Marmara Region, Turkey, were examined. The results showed that chestnut hybrids and cultivars have 58.12-69.83 total carbohydrates, 10.59-22.38 total sugars, 2.41-3.41 invert sugar, 6.15-12.44 total protein, 2.09-4.36 ash and 0.87-2.61 total fat values (g 100 g^-1 dry matter basis). It was determined that chestnut cultivars generally have over 50% water content and higher starch content (40.99-53.16 g 100 g^-1). The sucrose contents of the cultivars were higher than the other sugars. Sucrose, glucose and fructose contents were 10.77-21.66, 0.33-1.13, and 0.15-0.79, respectively (g 100 g^-1 dry matter basis). These results stated that chestnuts have rich nutritive substances for human nutrition and health.