Track: Environmental Engineering and Management

Abstract

The melon is one of the main horticultural products that are harvested in Mexico and is a source of employment and an important income for farmers in the country. The melon is in great demand in the juice and pulp industry and nowadays it is a current task to develop technologies for the use of processed seeds from melons. The objective of the present investigation was to determine the yield of 15 minerals and the composition of fatty acids present in melon seeds in order to add value to this residue. Some polyphenols were also determined in order to verify their possible intake to reduce certain health problems. Allergies and lactose intolerances have increased in recent years and therefore there has been a growing demand for alternatives. By taking advantage of the melon seeds, we sought to create a drink made of melon seeds as a substitute for milk. After performing several experiments in the lab, it was demonstrated that melon seeds contain high amounts of linoleic acid, a substance that regulates hormone production, improves neuronal function, strengthens the immune system and reduces cholesterol, thus preventing certain cardiac problems.