3.2 Pigments in Fruits and Vegetables
Objectives
- Identify the major pigment categories found in fruits, vegetables, and other plant foods.
- Observe the effects of pH on plant pigments and texture of vegetables.
Pigments in Fruits and Vegetables
There are 4 pigments commonly found in fruits and vegetables. It is not always obvious that there is a pigment present. It can become more noticeable when the pH of fruit or vegetable is adjusted. Some pigments are vitamin precursors (beta carotene is a carotenoid) and antioxidants (anthocyanins). Nutrition recommendations include consuming a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, which may be a good and easy-to-remember way to consume fruits and vegetables.
Describe the colors of the following pigments and list examples.
Anthocyanin
Color:
Examples:
Anthoxanthin
Color:
Examples:
Carotenoid
Color:
Examples:
Chlorophyll
Color:
Examples:
| Pigment | Vegetable Being Used | Color (neutral pH) | Water or Fat Soluble | Color in Acid | Texture in Acid | Color in Base | Texture in Base |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthocyanin | Red Cabbage | Water | |||||
| Anthoxanthin | Cauliflower | Water | |||||
| Carotenoid | Carrots | Fat | |||||
| Chlorophyll | Broccoli | Fat |
