Development and Evaluation of Jam using Ficus Racemosa

Objective: The objective of this study is to develop a natural, low calorie and nutritious jam using figs without any artificial preservatives and colours especially for children.

Method: An attempt has been made to develop a nutrient rich jam using figs (Ficus Racemosa) honey, sugar cinnamon and ginger. Different compositions and combinations were tried to arrive at an acceptable product. The variations were evaluated for their overall acceptability using a 9-point hedonic scale by 25 semi-trained panellists. Shelf-life studies were conducted at room temperature (360C) and at refrigeration temperatures (0 – 5 oC).

Results: Statistical evaluation of all the variations was carried out. It was found that Variation 1 had good overall acceptability score of 8.3. The variation 1 had the following composition; figs 50%, honey 25%, sugar 20%, cinnamon and ginger 1%. The variation which was selected contained per 100 gms the following: total energy 152 kcals, protein 1.95 gms, carbohydrates 41 gms, fat 0.19gms, fiber 2.08gms, iron 0.65 mgs, ash 1.18% and moisture 53.57%. The fig jam was 133 kcal (53%) less than the commercially available jam which also had added sucrose, chemical preservatives, added colours and flavours. Shelf life studies showed that the jam was good for consumption for 15 days at room temperature and for 20 days at refrigeration temperature.

Conclusion: The World Health Organization estimates that over 340 million children (ages 5 to 10) were overweight according to a 2016 survey. Children in general are fond of jams. Fig trees are native of Indian subcontinent. The fig trees grow in dry regions and need no maintainance. Fig trees bear fruits all year round and in abundance. Figs are a rich source of calcium, polyphenols and dietary fiber. Antioxidants present in figs prevent lipoprotein oxidation thus help in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The low-calorie fig jam thus produced can not only be used by children but also by indivuduals across all age groups.