Physico-chemical composition and phytochemical screening of cocoa mass purchased commercially in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire)
Paper Details
Physico-chemical composition and phytochemical screening of cocoa mass purchased commercially in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire)
Abstract
Côte d’Ivoire, the world’s leading cocoa producer, nevertheless has a low rate of processing its production. Cocoa mass is one of the products derived from cocoa processing, and its nutritional and functional properties remain poorly documented. This study was conducted to contribute to the valorization of cocoa mass by determining its physicochemical and phytochemical characteristics and identifying its phenolic compounds. To this end, three commercially available samples purchased in Abidjan were subjected to biochemical analyses for physicochemical characterization. The phenolic profile was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results revealed significant variability in the physicochemical parameters. The analyses indicated a low moisture content (0.60%), which is a major advantage for long-term storage, a pH (5.8) consistent with well-fermented cocoa, and high levels of fat (53.76%) and carbohydrates (31.95%). The corresponding energy value is equivalent to 661.56 kcal/100 g, indicating a high caloric content. The results also indicate a high fineness (99%) of the cocoa mass. From a phytochemical perspective, HPLC analysis of the cocoa masses enabled the identification and quantification of seven (07) specific phenolic compounds, the major ones being proanthocyanidins (85.33 mg/100 g), epicatechin (118.83 mg/100 g), and catechin (93.33 mg/100 g). Thus, the results of this study confirm that cocoa mass, thanks to its nutritional and functional properties, is a valuable asset for human nutrition, capable of enriching local diets and contributing to food security.
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Attoh Hyacinthe Anon*, Hermann Fourier Atta Anno, Nyamien Yves Bleouh Jean, Fagbohoun Jean Bedel, Kouassi kouame Henri Joel, Patrice Lucien Kouamé, 2026. Physico-chemical composition and phytochemical screening of cocoa mass purchased commercially in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire). Int. J. Biosci., 29(1), 188-199.
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