Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on the production of a mixed fruit product using locally sourced citrus fruits, namely Orange (Citrus sinensis), Tangerine (Citrus reticulata), Lemon (Citrus limon), and Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi). The goal of the project is to create a unique and flavorful mixed fruit product that combines the distinct characteristics of these different citrus fruits. The research will involve studying the properties of each citrus fruit, including flavor profiles, nutritional content, and availability of bioactive compounds. The production process will involve juicing the citrus fruits individually and then blending the juices to create a harmonious mixture. The project will also explore different formulations and ratios to achieve the desired taste and nutritional profile. Additionally, the research will investigate the potential health benefits of the mixed fruit product, such as its antioxidant content and vitamin C levels. The sourcing of citrus fruits locally is essential to support the local agricultural economy and promote sustainability. By utilizing locally grown citrus fruits, the project aims to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and storage of fruits. Furthermore, sourcing fruits locally ensures freshness and quality, which are crucial for producing a high-quality mixed fruit product. The mixed fruit product will be marketed as a healthy and refreshing beverage option for consumers. The project will also explore potential collaborations with local farmers and suppliers to establish a sustainable supply chain for the citrus fruits. By promoting the consumption of locally sourced fruits, the project aims to raise awareness about the benefits of supporting local agriculture and reducing food miles. Overall, this research project aims to showcase the potential of locally sourced citrus fruits in creating innovative and healthy food products. By combining different citrus varieties in a mixed fruit product, the project seeks to offer consumers a unique and flavorful experience while supporting local farmers and promoting sustainability. The findings of this research will contribute to the development of new products that utilize locally grown fruits and promote a more sustainable food system.

Thesis Overview

Fruits are part of a plant that houses seeds or flesh covering of nuts or succulent they are pulpy in character often juice and since they develop from flowers of plants they consist of the ripened seed or seeds with some edible tissue attached ( Iheoronye and Ngoddy 1985). Fruits are also plant parts which have aromatic and fragrant characteristics and are usually sweet or sweetened before eating. They may also be processed into other fruits bevcarge marmalades, fruit butters, vinegar, nectars wine pastes price and preserves (Ihekoronye 1999). Processing method used for any fruit depends on the fruit type (janick et- al 1981)
There are also different kinds of tropical fruits available for the production of fruit juices and they are pineapple, grape lime lemon shaddock oranges paw- paw tangerine all these are used for the different purpose depending on the type of drink that is desired, one mature and fully ripe. The chief nutritional contribution of citrus juices other than the calorific energy supply by their natural sugar content is vitamin C which is the anti scurvy vitamin. These facts proves that the possibility that fruit drinks might be substituted for break fast serving. All the ready to serve canned juice and a few of the other in contrast contained substantial amount of vitamin C.
Various authorities have estimate that 25- 80 % fresh fruit and vegetable produced are lost at harvest in tropical regions which include a large proportion of developing countries, losses can be of considerable economic and social importance. (unpublished hand out 1.
Fruit due to their composition and physiology are highly perishable and therefore needed to undergo some treatment which will aid in improving and increasing the sholf life of the fruit. It is also important to process fruit so as to maintain consistency and to ease shipping and also necessary to process those fruits so as to manufacture for both home grown and imported product for exports so as to aid imposing the wealth of the country.
Tropical fruits include pineapples, orange grape, lime guava, shaddock, lemon and we have them grouped into various classification. Example fig fruits and citrus fruit etc.
A wide variety of products are available form produce fruit which include jams, soft drink carbonated beverages, alcoholic drink fermented products (tression and joslyn 1971)
The major steps of producing fruits juice include selection of fruits, all selected fruits should be of the best quality and of the required level of maturity (Ihekoronye 19991). It should be washed with potable water, sort, peel destorng and slicing should take place under most hyjenic conditions. Use of cleared surfaces such as plastic covered wooden table or strong surface are desired. Fruit can be extracted by fruit press fruit will or hand pulpier sieve and stainless steel had to be used for the extraction process.
Fruit juice are pasteurized in the jar in order to kill micro organism which causes spoilage and finally into clean sterile container sealing into clean lids or freezing (Ihekoronye 1999) these is mainly used when producing in large quality.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE OF THIS PROJECT
To produce mixed fruit drink with our own locally source citrus fruit.
And to make sure that citrus oriented products are utilized when available by converting it into fruit juice which can used when the fruits are no longer in seism.