PROXIMATE AND NUTRIENT ANALYSIS OF TWO EXOTIC AND ONE LOCAL PINEAPPLE VARIETIES

Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is an economically important tropical fruit valued for its nutritional and industrial uses. This study evaluated three pineapple varieties (MD2, Sugar Loaf, and Smooth Cayenne) based on proximate composition, mineral content, and quality attributes, supported by multivariate analyses. Significant varietal differences were observed for protein, ash, fibre, fat, carbohydrate, and moisture contents, indicating wide nutritional diversity. MD2 was superior in protein, ash, moisture, and fat, Sugar Loaf excelled in carbohydrate and minerals such as potassium, sodium, and calcium, while Smooth Cayenne had the highest fibre content. Although colour traits did not differ significantly among varieties, MD2 showed higher lightness and chromatic values, enhancing its visual appeal. Principal Component Analysis and correlation studies revealed that carbohydrate strongly associated with sodium and potassium but was inversely related to fibre and calcium, highlighting nutritional trade-offs. Oil clustered positively with ash, while iron showed a negative relationship with colour parameters. These findings underscore the influence of genetic and environmental factors on fruit composition and quality. The study recommends MD2 for high-protein and mineral-ash diets, Sugar Loaf for energy-rich and mineral-dense purposes, and Smooth Cayenne for fibre-related health benefits. The results provide valuable insights for varietal selection, consumer nutrition, food processing, and breeding programs aimed at developing balanced pineapple varieties.