The aim of this study was to develop traditional umbu-caja jam, characterization of its physical, chemical, microbiological and sensory parameters, and to evaluate the stability during storage for six months at ambient conditions. For processing, 44% of the diluted umbu-caja pulp, 1% of high methoxyl pectin (HMP) and 55% of granulated sugar were used. The formulation was subjected to cooking in open stainless steel pan until soluble solids content of about 68 ª Brix. The jam was bottled in transparent glass containers. It was characterized and stored in temperature and humidity averages of 23.25 ºC and 81% respectively with monitoring by physical and chemical analysis at every 30 days of storage. The results of the chemical characterization showed that product presented high carbohydrate content, low protein and ash contents and calorific value of 256 g kcal/100 g. It was not observed any microorganisms in this product (molds and yeasts, total and thermotolerants coliforms, Staphylococcus, Salmonella and mesophilic bacteria). There was a high acceptability, with acceptance rates greater than 70% for all investigated sensory attributes (color, appearance, aroma, consistency, taste, sweetness and overall impression) and purchase intent of 67.5%, indicating a potential for industrialization and marketing. The storage caused a significant increase in pH, total soluble solids (TSS), TSS/TA ratio and firmness, and significant reductions in titratable acidity (TA), water activity, lightness (L*), intensities of red (a*) and of yellow (b*) colors, chroma (c*), hue angle (h*), extrusion and adhesiveness. There was a tendency for stability of moisture and total solids. The processing of umbu-caja for preparation of jam was feasible, presenting itself as another option of income for small farmers in the Brazilian semiarid.
Spondias spp.; processing; quality control; storage
