Comparative estimation of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) in Sweet-melon, Watermelon and Cucumber

Abstract

This research is carried out to provide valuable information for individuals that would want to properly modify their nutrient intake. It would enable individuals to know the quantity of these fruits (Sweet melon, Watermelon and Cucumber) needed to be consumed per day to meet the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of Vitamin C for healthy living. Understanding the relative content of Ascorbic acid in these fruits will help individuals plan their diets and know how to properly incorporate them in foods daily to avoid Vitamin C deficiency health problems. This study determined and compared the vitamin C content in Sweet melon, Watermelon and Cucumber. The extracted juices were analysed for ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) using Iodometric Titration method. Results obtained showed that Sweet melon contain (58.4mg/100cm³), Water melon (22.75mg/100cm³) and Cucumber (16.25mg/100cm³) concentrations of ascorbic acid. The ascorbic acid concentrations being highest in Sweet melon and lowest in Cucumber. Therefore sweet melon is the best source of Vitamin C among the three fruits analyzed. Sweet melon can be recommended for individuals suffering from vitamin C deficiency. It is recommended that nutrition and health education is needed to promote increased consumption of fruits rich in Vitamin C content to avoid diseases caused by its deficiency such as scurvy, Iron deficiency anemia, bone disease in children.