Influence of Adsorbent and Ion Exchange Resin Applications on Mineral Contents of Grape Pekmez (Molasses)

In this study, effect of the activated carbon, Amberlite^® XAD-16 adsorbent resins and Dowex^® 50Wx8-100 ion exchange resin applications on the mineral content of grape juice and molasses was investigated. Grape juices applied and unapplied resins were concentrated to 50, 60 and 70° Brix by conventional method. Macro (Ca, Na, P, S, K and Mg) and micro (B, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) element analyses were performed to the grape juices and pekmez (molasses) by ICP-AES method. The mineral content of grape juice was not affected by the activated carbon, but calcium (Ca) content of the grape juice applied Dowex^® 50Wx8-100, and sulphur (S) content of grape juice applied Amberlite^® XAD-16 were decreased 47.21% and 6.11%, respectively. All macro minerals analyzed in the grape molasses produced without applying resin were decreased by concentration process. On the other hand, Ca, S and Mg content by applying activated carbon, and only Mg content by applying Dowex^® 50Wx8-100 were decreased in the grape molasses.