Analysis of βeta-carotene from Jongi (Dillenia Serrata Thunb.) as a source of vitamin A

Beta-carotene is converted in the body to vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant that plays an essential role in maintaining healthy eyes, skin, and neurological function. Beta-carotene and other carotenoids have antioxidant activities and are valued for their ability to prevent chronic disease. β-carotene is found in yellow, orange, red, and green fruits. The purpose of this study was to determine the β-carotene in Jongi. Jongi (Dillenia Serrata Thunb.) is an endemic fruit of Sulawesi which contains β-carotene. The samples used in this study were raw jongi and ripe jongi extracted with n-hexane: acetone (1:4). To the samples were analyzed quantitatively using UV-Vis spectrophotometry at a wavelength of 450.00 nm. The results showed that the β-carotene in raw jongi was 0.3554 mg/100 g and the β- carotene in ripe jongi was 1.1841 mg/100 g. Ripe jongi consist of more β-carotene than the raw jongi, hence better as a source of Vitamin A