A glance on characterization of almond kernels from five varieties cultivated in eastern Morocco

Abstract

The Green Morocco Plan is established for 2008-2020 to improve productivity in the agriculture sector and to plant more productive perennial tree crops such as almonds that are better suited for Morocco's climate. Belgian Development Agency support almond orchards extension in eastern Morocco in purpose to achieve socio-economic improvement. This research is part of a local project (PROFAO) for development of almond in eastern Morocco. The present study evaluates some almond oil parameters fiber and protein content of five almond varieties (Beldi, Fournat, Ferraduel/Ferragnes and Marcona). The aim is to classify varieties on the basis of kernels content of oil and their richness of fibers. Significant variations were found among the five almond varieties examined. Almond oil content ranged from 48 % for Fournat to aproximativly 60 % for Marcona & Beldi. Fatty acids (FA) profiles are slightly different. Oleic acid ranged from 58 % for Marcona to 68 % for Beldi; linoleic acid ranged from 20 % for Beldi to 30 % for Marcona. Saturated FA (palmitic and stearic) were found at levels lesser than 10 %. In almond press cake, total protein content varied between 55 % for Beldi and 48 % for Fournat. The highest total fiber content was found for Fournat (25 %), however Beldi present the lowest rate (16 %). We conclude that Marcona & Beldi would be interesting varieties for almond oil; Fournat seems to be interesting for its richness in fiber