QUALITY OF FRUIT JUICES IN KOSOVO MARKET

Fruit juices constitute an important ingredient in the human diet. Having into consideration the large volumes and numerous types of fruit juices found in Kosovo's market, the aim of this study is to explore the quality of fruit juices, collected in different retail markets in Kosovo. In order to represent the most preferred types of fruit juices, during 2014, 15 samples of different fruit juices (Ci, Do, Ef, Ek, Fr, Fu, Jch, Lf, Ma, Mm, Mv, Re, Tf, Tl and Tu,) were included in this study. Samples in triplicate were analyzed on chemical-physical composition (total solids, total sugar, ash, vitamin C, ethanol, total acidity, pH value, sweetness index, density, the presence of artificial colors, the presence of artificial sweeteners), and sensory properties (clearness-homogeneity, sweetness, color, aroma and taste). Results were statistically processed using the statistical package JMP-in 7.0 (SAS business unit) and determination of average, minimal and maximal values, standard deviation and coefficient of variation were included. Of all 45 analyzed samples, results of chemical-physical composition showed statistically different values (P<0.0001) among fruit juices. Out of 15 analyzed fruit juices, the presence of artificial coloring is ascertained in 10 juices whereas the presence of artificial sweeteners is ascertained in 13 juices. Moreover, the sensory analysis showed that most of analysed brands did not meet quality requirements and were considered to be unacceptable for consumption.