Pantnagar Journal of Research

Abstract

Star fruit (Averrhoa carambola L.), commonly known as the Golden Star, is a tropical fruit from the Oxalidaceae family, distinguished by its star-shaped cross-section and unique sweet-sour flavor. Traditionally used in Indian medicine as a cooling agent, it is valued for its nutritional and therapeutic benefits. However, no comprehensive studies were made in this fruit. Therefore, the nutritional composition, anti nutritional factors, and antioxidant potential of ripe star fruit was evaluated. The fruit showed a high moisture content (92.52%) and moderate acidity (0.32%), consistent with its juicy texture and tart taste. Proximate analysis revealed low levels of fat (0.28 g/100 g) and protein (0.56 g/100 g), along with moderate amounts of carbohydrates (6.49 g/100 g) and dietary fiber (3.25 g/100 g), indicating its suitability for low-calorie, fiber-rich diets. Mineral profiling identified potassium (119 mg/100 g) as the most abundant element, followed by phosphorus, calcium, sodium, and iron. Antinutritional factors were found in minimal concentrations, with oxalates at 7.53 mg/100 g, within acceptable limits for tropical fruits. Tannins (0.16 mg/100 g) and phytates (0.04 mg/100 g) were present in trace amounts, unlikely to affect nutrient bioavailability. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, superoxide, and nitric oxide scavenging assays with IC50 values of 636 μg /mL, 662 μg /mL, 298 μg /mL, and 78 μg /mL, respectively. The findings highlight that star fruit is a nutritious and functional fruit with promising applications in health-conscious diets, and it can be used to develop nutraceutical and functional food products.