Production technology and characteristics of Styrian pumpkin seed oil
2008
Fruhwirth, Gilbert O. | Hermetter, Albin
Cucurbita pepo subsp. pepo var. Styriaca, the so-called Styrian oil pumpkin, is a phylogenetically young member of the Cucurbita spp. A single mutation occurred only in the 19th century and led to dark green seeds with stunted outer hulls. This mutation facilitated the production of Styrian pumpkin seed oil that became a regional specialty oil in the south-eastern part of Europe during the last few decades. We describe in this article the production and economic value of this edible specialty oil as well as the most important parameters relevant for its quality. Furthermore, we report on its molecular composition including fatty acids, vitamins, phytosterols, minerals, polyphenols, and those compounds that are responsible for its color, taste and flavor. Finally, information is provided on potential contaminants of Styrian pumpkin seed oil as well as its putative beneficial health effects.
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