Abstract:

Rhus chinensis Mill. is a lesser known highly acidic fruit, traditionally used for its digestive properties and treatment of diarrhea, dysentery and gastrointestinal ailments. In this study, physicochemical characteristics and nutritional properties of different parts of the fruit and development of value added products – R. chinensis tablet and R. chinensis candy and their storability were evaluated. The major organic acids identified were malic acid, citric acid and ascorbic acid, which are documented for the first time. In comparison to whole fruit and seed, fruit pulp showed the maximum activities of antioxidants, total polyphenols and total flavanoids. These findings suggest that R. chinensis fruit can be considered as a potential functional food or functional food ingredient.