Deterioration of Physico-Chemical Properties of Chilgoza (Pinus Gerardiana Wall) Seed During Storage

The physico-chemical changes In the chilgoza (Pinus gerardiana Wall.) seed during storage for a period of one year were studied. Maximum deteriorative changes were observed in the seed during June to Nov. the latter half of the storage period. Seed turned dark blackish brown in colour and emitted rancid moldy odour. The moisture, gross weight and oil content of seed was markedly reduced. The oil changed from pale yellow to dirty range in colour, emitted rancid odour and changed from semi-drying to non diying nature. The free fatty acid contents, saponification and peroxide values of oil increased with storage while iodine value decreased. The total nitrogen, protein, non reducing sugar and total sugar of seed showed a marked reduction towards the end of the storage period.