Tableting : alternate way of valorization of agro-resources

Abstract

In this work we attempt to investigate the possibility of use tableting as alternate way for valorization of some agro-resource species, including, certain date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruit varieties as ordinary edible fruit, strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) berries and numerous medicinal plants. The preliminary results obtained are conclusive. In all cases, the date fruit powder is used as base matrix because of its capacity to undergo tableting. The combination of various plant species with date fruits allowed to obtain tablets with convenient physical proprieties in terms of hardness, disintegration time, erosion…Also, the final product acquired an appetizing flavor which is of a particular interest when the initial non-food matrix has a disagreeable taste. Thus, the formulation of such tablets from medicinal plants hides the bitterness, making the product more acceptable to consumers, especially those suffering from various diseases. Also, the fast dissolution of the date powder, thanks to the presence of natural simple sugars, make the obtained tablets very convenient for some patients. The physical-chemical proprieties of powder and then tablets from lyophilized strawberry berries are also investigated. Taking into account its high content in vitamin C, this powder can be employed as other natural ingredient enhancing the nutritional value of tablets, as well as their stability. Finally, the effervescent ability of date powder is studied, varying the proportions of some chemical reactants like tartaric acid, citric acid, sodium carbonate and bicarbonate