Phytochemical screening and DPPH radical scavenging activity of three morphotypes of L.f. from Peru, and thermal stability of a milk-based beverage enriched with carotenoids from these fruits.

L.f. is a palm tree which presents great morphological variability (morphotypes), represented mainly by the mesocarp color of its fruits. The objective of the study was to characterize the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of three morphotypes L.f. ("Yellow", "Colour" and "Shambo") of greater economic importance in the Peruvian Amazon. "Shambo" showed a significantly high content of bioactive compounds (total phenolics, flavonoids and carotenoids) and DPPH radical scavenging activity compared to the "Yellow" and "Colour" morphotypes ( 0.05). There was a significant correlation between DPPH radical scavenging activity and total phenolics, flavonoids and carotenoids ( 0.01). Furthermore, milk-based beverages enriched with carotenoids of those morphotypes of L.f. have been shown to be a good source of bioactive compounds for use in the food industry. The milk-based beverages enriched with carotenoids of those morphotypes L.f. showed higher lightness (∗) and yellowness (∗).