Nutritional analysis and sensory evaluation of ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus Loz) grown in New Zealand

Abstract

Ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus Loz) is an Andean crop that has recently been reintroduced into New Zealand. Nutritional analysis and sensory evaluation were undertaken using standard methods. Ulluco contained high carbohydrate and fibre levels, moderate protein and low fat. Panellists were asked to assess the overall acceptability of raw and cooked ulluco and to state their preferences for colour, bitterness, sweetness and mealiness of cooked ulluco. Red was the most preferred skin and tissue colour of ulluco over plain yellow and mixtures of yellow, green and red. There were no significant differences in panellists' preferences for taste between ulluco cultivars, although panellists disliked the appearance of the multicoloured cultivars. The successful cultivation of this crop in New Zealand in the future will depend on optimising growing conditions and educating consumers about the aesthetic appeal of the different skin and tissue colours. © 2000 Society of Chemical Industry