The Nutritional, Mineral, and Nutraceutical Quality Is Differentially Affected by the Mango Cultivar

Abstract

The main mango cultivars produced in the southern Pacific region of Mexico are Ataulfo, Manila, Haden, and Criollo. However, mineral, nutritional, and nutraceutical composition studies are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cultivars on the nutritional, mineral, and nutraceutical qualities of mango produced in Mexico. The cultivar significantly affected (p ≤ 0.05) the fruit composition across these indices. Criollo had the highest potassium, magnesium, sodium, and zinc concentrations, while Haden showed the highest calcium content. Manila had the highest iron content, contributing 0.76% of the recommended daily intake. Ataulfo and Haden were statistically similar in manganese content, both higher than Criollo, with Ataulfo reaching the maximum copper concentration. Ataulfo also had the highest sugar content, while Criollo had the most dietary fiber (3.1%), double that of Ataulfo and Haden. Haden had the lowest dry matter (14.8%) and lowest protein content (0.46%), with Manila showing the lowest ash content. The cultivars also differed in nutraceutical composition: Ataulfo was highest in total phenols, DPPH, and vitamin A; Haden in carotenoids and flavonoids; and Criollo in vitamin C. Cultivar selection induces changes in mango nutritional composition.

1. Introduction

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is cultivated in 23 states of Mexico, but Sinaloa, Guerrero, Nayarit, and Chiapas concentrate most of the national production, generating approximately 76% of the total. Guerrero stands out for its contribution, representing about 18.7% of the national volume, with a cultivated area exceeding 27,000 hectares. The main cultivars are Ataulfo (30%); Manila, Kent, and Tommy Atkins (≈15%); Haden (9%); and Criollo (7%), each with distinctive characteristics that influence their market acceptance [1].

Mango quality is assessed through various parameters, such as sugar content (13.8%), acidity (0.42%), firmness (8N), and color (Hue 72.4°), which are crucial for its marketability [2,3]. Mango is a rich source of vitamins in mg or μg 100⁻¹ g of fresh pulp weight (A with 300 to 1800 μg retinol equivalents, B1 0.01–0.04 mg, C 13.2–92.8 mg, E 0.79–1.02 mg, and K 4.2 μg). On the other hand, it stands out for its levels (g or mg 100^–1 g of dry pulp weight) of water (78–83 g), protein (0.36–0.40 g), carbohydrates (16.20–17.18 g), fat (0.30–0.53 g), ash (0.34–0.52 g), dietary fiber (0.85–1.06 g), energy (62.1–190 kcal), and minerals such as potassium (120–211 mg), calcium (7–16 mg), magnesium (8–19 mg), sodium (0–3 mg), iron (0.09–0.41 mg), manganese (0.03–0.12 mg), copper (0.04–0.32 mg), zinc (0.06–0.15 mg), and selenium (0–0.6 mg). It also contains essential amino acids like lysine (0–0.06 g), leucine (0–0.05 g), valine (0–0.04 g), and nutraceutical compounds like total polyphenols (0.418 g) and gallic acid (98.7 mg) among other substances that make it a highly beneficial food for human health [2,3,4]. Although there are reports on its nutritional composition, they do not always specify the cultivar, and studies addressing similar topics [5,6,7] do not include the cultivars most produced in Guerrero, one of the leading mango-producing regions in Mexico.

Studies on the nutritional and mineral qualities of mangoes in Mexico are limited. On the one hand, research has focused on the agronomic and environmental factors that affect yield [8,9,10,11]; on the other hand, other studies have concentrated on the physical attributes and postharvest quality of the fruit, which determine its potential for international markets [4,5,7]. In the state of Guerrero, studies conducted between 2016 and 2017 identified that although producers are interested in exporting, only a few meet the necessary standards. This underscores the need for more comprehensive studies on the nutritional and mineral qualities of mangoes, particularly those most produced in Guerrero, one of the leading mango-producing regions in Mexico [12].

Studies have documented the postharvest quality and some nutraceutical aspects of the mangoes grown in Guerrero. However, there is still a need to explore the nutritional, mineral, and functional qualities to understand the potential benefits for consumers receiving mangoes produced in Mexico. The lack of this information limits producers’ ability to compete in broader markets, where consumers increasingly value quality and nutritional value. Guerrero, located in the southern Pacific region of Mexico, primarily grows ‘Ataulfo’, ‘Manila’, ‘Haden’, and ‘Criollo’ mangoes. Therefore, studying the effect of cultivars under standard management practices on the nutritional aspects is essential. This research aimed to evaluate the effect of cultivars on the nutritional, mineral, and nutraceutical qualities of mangoes cultivated in the southern Pacific region of Mexico.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Study Area and Sample Collection

In March 2020, fruit and soil samples were collected from mango orchards located in San Marcos (16°47′38.09″ N, 99°23′14.51″ W), Las Vigas (16°45′47.50″ N, 99°13′49.56″ W), Alto de Ventura (16°45′47.50″ N, 99°13′49.56″ W), and Cuajinicuilapa (16°28′28.92″ N, 98°24′51.69″ W) in Guerrero, Mexico (Figure 1).

The orchards, with less than 2% slopes and a predominant loamy-sand texture, were located between 30 and 60 m above sea level. In the study area, the meteorological conditions for the current production cycle were recorded, with an average temperature of 23 °C (Figure 2), an annual precipitation of 1200 mm, and a predominantly subhumid climate [13].

2.2. Fruit and Soil Sample Collection

In 2020, a survey was conducted in the mango-producing region of Guerrero, Mexico, to identify the orchards of the cultivars ‘Ataulfo’, ‘Manila’, ‘Haden’, and ‘Criollo’. Usually, ‘Criollo’ is self-rooted and is used as rootstock for the ‘Ataulfo’, ‘Manila’, and ‘Haden’ cultivars. The selected orchards were 12 years old, with uniform tree health, canopy diameter, height, and standard pest and disease control practices. Mango fertilization included the application of 4.5 kg per tree by mixing fertilizers based on urea (46% N), diammonium phosphate (18% N and 46% P₂O₅), and muriate of potash (60% K₂O), used in a combination (100 kg urea + 100 kg diammonium phosphate + 50 kg as muriate of potash) that resulted in a dose of 129–93−60 kg ha⁻¹ in terms of N-P₂O₅-K₂O, respectively [9]. Midway through the harvest period in March, the trees were marked for fruit and soil sampling.

The soil sampling process was meticulous and comprehensive. Using the zig-zag method [14,15], twelve trees were carefully selected, and samples were obtained with a ‘T-type’ auger from the 0 to 30 cm soil profile. The samples were taken at the four cardinal points and halfway between the trunk and the drip perimeter of the tree canopy. The samples were combined in a plastic container, followed by homogenization and quartering, resulting in a composite sample of 1 kg per orchard [16]. The collected soil samples were then transported to the laboratory for processing, which involved drying them on kraft paper in the shade. Following this, the soil was ground and sieved for physicochemical profile analysis according to standard procedures NOM-021-RECNAT-2000 [17] (

Table 1. Physicochemical components of soil salinity in orchards of four mango cultivars produced in Guerrero, México.

Component	Ataulfo	Manila	Haden	Criollo
pH (saturation paste)	7.46	7.16	7.35	7.28
C.E. (dS m−1)	0.19	0.31	0.17	0.42
Saturation percentage (%)	51	35	50	25
Sodium (meq L−1)	0.29	0.22	0.14	0.28
Potassium (meq L−1)	0.09	0.08	0.09	0.06
Calcium (meq L−1)	0.25	0.47	0.30	0.56
Magnesium (meq L−1)	0.14	0.19	0.16	0.21
Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR)	0.44	0.51	0.3	0.53
Carbonates (meq L−1)	N/D	N/D	N/D	N/D
Bicarbonates (meq L−1)	2.69	2.88	2.64	2.89
Chlorides (meq L−1)	2.71	2.76	2.93	2.83
Sulfates (meq L−1)	0.367	0.944	0.174	0.965

N/D: not detected. C.E.: electrical conductivity.

).

As previously described, the fruits were collected from the same trees where the soil samples were obtained. For each cultivar, the experimental unit or replication consisted of four trees, from which 10 fruits per tree were selected based on the absence of physical damage, uniform size, and health. The mangoes were manually harvested by experienced mango pickers, considering the size and shoulder filling of the fruits. After that, physiological maturity was confirmed by the fact that the total soluble solids values were greater than or equal to 9 ± 0.1% in a subsample of 10 fruits [3]. The mango fruits were transported in cardboard boxes to the ‘Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo’ (Food and Development Research Center) Nutrition Laboratory in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico. The fruits were washed with a chlorine solution at 150 ppm and allowed to dry. Any fruits with physical damage or heterogeneity were discarded until 10 fruits per replication were obtained for proximal and mineral determinations and 10 fruits for assessing functional quality. The fruits were stored at 20 °C until they reached maturity (Figure 3) after 8 days, at which point they achieved stage 5 of internal color, indicating suitability for consumption according to the scale reported for mangoes NMX-FF-058-SCFI-2006 [18].

The ripe fruits were peeled, sliced, and diced into 1 cm cubes using a knife. For functional determinations, 10 samples of 1 g of fresh pulp from each replication and cultivar were placed into individual 50 mL Eppendorf tubes and stored at -80 °C until analysis. A similar sampling procedure was used for proximal and mineral analyses. However, four 50 g samples of fresh pulp per replication for each cultivar were collected and stored at minus 20 °C for the subsequent analyses.

2.3. Evaluated Variables

2.3.1. Mineral Analysis

A 2 g sample of fresh pulp was weighed in a pre-weighed porcelain crucible and then placed in a muffle furnace for ashing at 650 °C for 12 h. The ash was then resuspended with 5 mL of HCl, and the resulting mineral solution was diluted to 100 mL with Type 2 purified water. Potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and boron (B) were quantified via atomic absorption spectrometry (AA FS flame AA 280FS + SIPS 20, Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA) according to the AOAC official methods (AOAC, 1998) [19].

2.3.2. Nutritional Analysis

The determination of moisture, ash, protein (Nitrogen × 6.25), fat, and carbohydrates was performed using the methods 925.45, 942.05, 988.05, 920.39, and 993.21, respectively [19]. The analysis was conducted on fresh mango pulp at consumption maturity.

For moisture determination, 2 g of sample was placed in a pre-weighed and tared crucible and then dried in an oven (70–80 °C) for 24 h until a constant weight was achieved. The percentage of protein was obtained by multiplying the nitrogen content analyzed by the semi-micro Kjeldahl method by the conversion factor of 6.25. For lipid extraction, 2 g of fresh pulp was used with a Goldfish apparatus (Buchi^® E-816 SOX, BÜCHI Labortechnik AG, Flawil, Switzerland) utilizing anhydrous petroleum ether. The lipid content was calculated by the weight difference in the receiving flask before and after the extraction. Energy in calories was obtained from protein, fat, and sugars according to NOM-051-SCFI/SSA 1-2010 [20].

Dietary fiber was obtained by analyzing 2 g of mango pulp dried at 60 °C in a forced-air oven (Isotemp, Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, USA) for 24 h. The sample was then ground to particle size and sieved (Mesh 40). Total dietary fiber, insoluble dietary fiber, and soluble dietary fiber were determined following the method 991.43 [21].

The total sugars in g 100⁻¹ g of fresh pulp were the sum of glucose, fructose, and sucrose determined in Section 2.3.3.

2.3.3. Available Sugars

Sugars were analyzed in 2 g of fresh mango pulp through three successive 80% (v/v) ethanol extractions according to Nikolidaki (2017) and subsequently following the instructions of the Megazyme enzymatic kit [21,22]. The sum of glucose, fructose, and sucrose constituted the total sugars.

2.3.4. Nutraceutical and Vitamin Analysis

The functional quality of fresh mango pulp was evaluated based on the content of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, vitamin C, total carotenoids, β-carotene, phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activity.

The determination of vitamin C in 1 g of frozen sample Whatman No. 1 paper using a vacuum pump and Kitasato flask, and then collected in a separation funnel to obtain the organic phase. This phase was analyzed at a wavelength (λ) of 446 nm using a spectrophotometer (Cary 60, Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA). Quantification was performed using a molar extinction coefficient of 2500, with the results reported as mg of carotenoids per 100 g of fresh pulp (FP), ensuring was a comprehensive process. The sample was homogenized with 45 mL of cold HPLC-grade water, filtered through Whatman No. 1 filter paper, and then through a SepPak C18 cartridge (Waters Corporation, Milford, MA, USA) [23]. A 2 mL aliquot of the extract was mixed with 2 mg of dithiothreitol to reduce dehydroascorbic acid, allowed to stand for 1 h, and then filtered through a 0.45 µm nylon membrane. A 20 μL sample was analyzed at a wavelength (λ) of 268 nm using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system (Varian, 9050, Spectralab Scientific Inc., Mississauga, ON, Canada) equipped with a UV-Vis detector and a C18 column (25 cm length × 4.6 mm diameter). The mobile phase, consisting of a KH₂PO₄ solution (pH 2.4 adjusted with H₃PO₄), was eluted at a flow rate of 1 mL min⁻¹ over a 10 min analysis time.

Vitamin C was quantified based on a calibration curve ranging from 0 to 0.2 mg mL⁻¹, using L-ascorbic acid as the reference standard (Sigma Aldrich Chemical Co., St. Louis, MO, USA). The analysis of total carotenoids was a meticulous process. In total, 5 g of sample was homogenized and mixed with 15 mL of hexane and 17.5 mL of acetone in three successive extractions [24]. The extracts from each sample were combined, filtered through the thoroughness and accuracy of our research.

β-Carotene was analyzed by liquid chromatography [25]. A 1 g sample of frozen mango pulp was homogenized with 10 mL of 50 mM sodium phosphate for 1 min. After homogenization, the sample was centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 10 min at 4 °C, and the supernatant was transferred to a flask. The pellet was then resuspended in 10 mL of ethyl acetate, homogenized, and centrifuged under the same conditions. The supernatant was collected, and this process was repeated three more times until the sample became colorless. The five extracts from each sample were combined in a separation funnel, and the organic phase was collected and made up to 50 mL for storage at −20 °C until determination by HPLC [26]. A β-carotene analysis was performed (λ 460 nm) using 5 mL of the extract injected into an HPLC system (Varian 9050) equipped with a UV-Vis detector and a 55 cm × 4.6 mm C₁₈ Reselut column. The sample was eluted with a mixture of acetonitrile–methanol (55:35:10 v/v) at a 1 mL min⁻¹ flow rate over a 10 min analysis period. The identification and quantification of carotenoids were performed by comparison with a β-carotene standard (Sigma Aldrich Chemical Co.) used to construct a calibration curve with the concentrations of 0, 20, 50, 60, 80, and 100 mg mL⁻¹ [27].

The analysis of total phenols was performed using 2.5 g of fresh mango pulp [28]. The sample was homogenized (Ultra-Turrax T 25, IKA IKA Works, Inc., Wilmington, NC, USA), mixed with 10 mL of methanol, and incubated at 200 rpm for 2 h at room temperature. After incubation, the sample was centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 15 min at 4 °C, and the supernatant was collected. Following methanolic extraction, the quantification was carried out in a 96-well plate. In each well, 20 μL of the supernatant was added, followed by 180 μL of Folin–Ciocalteu reagent and 120 μL of Na₂CO₃. The mixture was gently mixed and allowed to rest in the dark for 1 h. Absorbance was then measured at 720 nm using a microplate reader (Synergy TM HT Multidetection, BioTek, Inc., Winooski, VT, USA). Phenols were quantified using a calibration curve from 0 to 0.4 mg mL⁻¹ with gallic acid as the standard, expressing the concentration as milligrams of gallic acid equivalents per 100 g of mango pulp (mg GAE 100 g⁻¹).

The antioxidant capacity using the DPPH method, a widely accepted method for measuring antioxidant activity, was quantified by homogenizing 2.5 g of fresh mango pulp (Ultra-Turrax T 25, IKA Works, Inc.) with 10 mL of 80% methanol. The mixture was then stirred at 200 rpm for 2 h at room temperature in the dark. Afterward, the sample was centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 15 min at 4 °C, and the supernatant was collected for measurement.

The antioxidant capacity in the methanolic extracts to deactivate the stable DPPH radical was determined using the method described by Palafox-Carlos et al. [29]. A DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical solution in methanol was prepared, adjusting the initial absorbance to 0.7 ± 0.05. The reaction was performed by mixing 140 µL of the DPPH radical with 10 µL of the supernatant. The mixture was allowed to stand in the dark for 30 min, and the absorbance was measured at 515 nm using a spectrophotometer equipped with a microplate reader (Synergy TM HT Multi detection, BioTek, Inc., Winooski, VT, USA). The activity was expressed as the percentage of DPPH radical inhibition.

The total flavonoids were analyzed following the methodology described by Ebrahimzadeh et al. with slight modifications [30]. To a sample of 2.5 g fresh pulp (FP) of mango, 10 mL of cold methanol was added, and the mixture was homogenized (Ultraturrax T 25, IKA Works, Inc.). The mixture was stirred at 200 rpm for 2 h at room temperature and in the dark. Afterward, the mixture was centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 15 min at 4 °C, and the supernatant was collected for analysis.

In a 96-well plate, 30 µL of the extract was transferred to each well, and then 250 µL of distilled water, 10 µL of 10% aluminum chloride, and 10 µL of 1 M potassium acetate were added. The mixture was gently mixed and incubated in the dark for 30 min. The plate was then read using a microplate reader Synergy HT (BioTek, Agilent Technologies, Inc., Santa Clara, CA, USA) at a wavelength of 415 nm. The flavonoid concentration was determined using a quercetin standard with a calibration curve ranging from 0 to 0.4 mg mL⁻¹, and the results were expressed as milligrams of quercetin equivalents per gram of fresh pulp (mg EQ·g⁻¹ FP) [30].

2.4. Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis

The experimental design was completely randomized. The factor under study was the cultivar with four replications. The experimental unit consisted of four mango trees in total production, with 10 fruits collected from each tree at physiological maturity. An analysis of variance was performed with a completely randomized effects model, followed by mean comparisons using Tukey’s test (p < 0.05). All the analyses were conducted using the SAS statistical software version 9.0.

3. Results

3.1. Mineral Analysis

The mineral composition of the fresh mango pulp grown in Guerrero, Mexico, showed significant variations due to cultivar effects (

Table 2. Effect of the cultivar (p-value) on the mineral concentration of fresh mango pulp (fp) at consumption ripeness (according to NMX-FF-058-SCFI-2006).

Mineral	Ataulfo	Manila	Haden	Criollo	HSD	p-Value	RDIavg.	USDA
mg 100 g−1 fp							mg d−1
K	97.92 ± 1.15 b	58.07 ± 2.12 c	104.48 ± 1.5 b	157.91 ± 7.75 a	21.59	<0.0001	4800	168
Mg	3.97 ± 0.02 b	4.34 ± 0.15 b	4.73 ± 0.05 b	18.52 ± 0.44 a	1.24	<0.0001	250	10
Na	0.88 ± 0.08 b	0.90 ± 0.09 b	0.57 ± 0.09 b	1.50 ± 0.10 a	0.49	0.002	1350	1
Ca	2.02 ± 0.03 b	2.30 ± 0.13 b	3.62 ± 0.65 a	1.25 ± 0.02 c	0.40	<0.0001	900	11
Fe	0.11 ± 0.01 b	0.18 ± 0.01 a	0.10 ± 0.01 b	0.11 ± 0.01 b	0.01	<0.0001	14.45	0.16
Mn	0.04 ± 0.01 a	0.03 ± 0.01 a	0.04 ± 0.01 a	0.05 ± 0.01 a	0.02	0.1370	2.25	0.06
Cu	0.05 ± 0.01 a	0.04 ± 0.01 b	0.04 ± 0.01 b	0.01 ± 0.001 c	0.01	<0.0001	0.77	0.11
Zn	0.03 ± 0.01 b	0.01 ± 0.001 c	0.02 ± 0.01 bc	0.04 ± 0.01 a	0.01	0.007	8.89	0.09
B	0.06 ± 0.01 a	0.04 ± 0.01 a	0.06 ± 0.01 a	0.05 ± 0.01 a	0.01	0.073	N/R	N/R

Means and standard deviation with different letters in rows indicate significant differences (Tukey p ≤ 0.05). fp: fresh pulp. HSD: honest significant difference. RDIavg: recommended daily intake, average [31]. Not reported (N/R). U.S. Department of Agriculture [6].

). Based on the mineral concentration in fresh mango pulp and assuming a consumption of 100 g, each element contributes to human health according to the average recommended daily intake (RDI). Potassium (K) was the most abundant mineral, with ‘Criollo’ having the highest value (157.91 mg 100⁻¹ g), representing potentially 3.3% of the RDI. In contrast, Haden and Ataulfo only reached 2.2% and 2.0% of the RDI, respectively. For magnesium (Mg) and sodium (Na), Criollo was statistically superior to the other cultivars, achieving 7.4% and 0.1% of the RDI, respectively.

For calcium, Haden achieved the highest statistically significant level (3.61 mg 100⁻¹ g), representing 0.40% of the recommended daily intake (RDI), which was 185% higher compared to the lowest RDI of 0.14% in the ‘Criollo’ mango. Iron was the most concentrated in the fresh pulp among the important micronutrients for human health. Manila statistically surpassed the other cultivars in iron concentration, contributing up to 1.3% of the RDI. For manganese, Ataulfo and Haden reached the highest concentrations, covering 9% of the RDI. For copper, Ataulfo achieved the highest level compared to the other cultivars, equivalent to 6.4% of the RDI. For zinc, Criollo exceeded the other cultivars, and its consumption could reach an RDI of 0.6%, which is 200% higher than Manila, with an RDI of 0.2%. Meanwhile, for boron, Ataulfo achieved the highest concentration and surpassed the other evaluated cultivars, although its RDI for human health is unknown.

3.2. Nutritional Analysis

The cultivar significantly affected mango pulp nutritional content (

Table 3. Effect (p-value) of the cultivar on the proximate properties, fiber, and sugars of fresh mango (fp) at consumer maturity (according to NMX-FF-058-SCFI-2006) [18].

Parameter	Ataulfo	Manila	Haden	Criollo	HSD	p-Value
Energy (cal 100−1 g fp)	73.44 ± 1.18 a	65.13 ± 3.51 ab	49.11 ± 6.20 b	51.00 ± 1.95 b	19.92	0.0126
Moisture (g 100−1 g fp)	79.71 ± 0.45 b	81.53 ± 0.89 ab	85.86 ± 1.54 a	83.79 ± 0.47 ab	4.97	0.0198
Ash (g 100−1 g fp)	0.43 ± 0.01 ab	0.32 ± 0.01 b	0.34 ± 0.01 ab	0.47 ± 0.05 a	0.14	0.0256
Proteins (g 100−1 g fp)	0.77 ± 0.02 a	0.82 ± 0.02 a	0.46 ± 0.01 b	0.83 ± 0.02 a	0.13	<0.0001
Fat (g 100−1 g fp)	0.04 ± 0.01 b	0.04 ± 0.01 b	0.03 ± 0.01 b	0.09 ± 0.01 a	0.01	<0.0001
Total carbohydrates (% fp)	19.03 ± 0.43 a	17.26 ± 0.87 ab	13.29 ± 1.54 b	14.80 ± 0.54 ab	4.99	0.0258
Sugars (g 100−1 g fp)	17.48 ± 0.44 a	14.68 ± 0.52 ab	11.73 ± 1.55 b	11.70 ± 0.50 b	4.64	0.0113
Dietary fiber (g 100−1 g fp)	1.55 ± 0.01 c	1.91 ± 0.01 b	1.57 ± 0.02 c	3.09 ± 0.05 a	0.15	<0.0001
Soluble fiber (g 100−1 g fp)	0.57 ± 0.01 b	0.51 ± 0.01 b	1.05 ± 0.03 a	1.07 ± 0.02 a	0.11	<0.0001
Insoluble fiber (g 100−1 g fp)	0.96 ± 0.01 c	1.41 ± 0.02 b	0.51 ± 0.01 d	2.02 ± 0.02 a	0.10	<0.0001

Means and standard deviation with different letters in rows indicate significant differences (Tukey p ≤ 0.05). fp: fresh pulp. cal: calories. HSD: honest significant difference.

). The mango ‘Haden’ exhibited the highest moisture content (85.8%) and the lowest protein content (0.46%) compared to the other cultivars. On the other hand, Manila showed statistically the lowest ash content, which is related to its lower mineral content (Table 2). A total of 100 g of fresh mango pulp can provide between 49 and 73 calories (205 to 305 kJ). After water, the main component in mangoes is carbohydrates, represented by the sugars present in ripe fruit, whereas Ataulfo and Manila exhibited significantly higher amounts of sugars and, therefore, also provided the highest energy contribution (Table 3).

The dietary fiber content of the fresh pulp showed significant differences among the evaluated cultivars (Table 3). The ‘Criollo’ cultivar stood out for having the highest amount of dietary fiber at 3.1%, double that of the ‘Ataulfo’ and ‘Haden’ cultivars (Table 3). The recommended daily intake of fiber is 28 g/day [31].

When analyzing the individual components of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble, and considering the fibrous characteristics of some mango fruit pulps, it was observed that insoluble fiber was greater than soluble fiber (2:1, except for ‘Haden’, which had a 1:2 ratio).

3.3. Available Sugars

The concentration of sugars among the four mango cultivars showed statistical differences (Figure 4). Sucrose represented more than 77% of the total sugars, followed by fructose and glucose. ‘Ataulfo’ achieved the highest sucrose value at 14%, statistically similar to the sucrose content in the ‘Manila’ cultivar but different from the other cultivars. For fructose, Ataulfo, Manila, and Haden showed the highest values and were statistically similar (1.7–2.8%), whereas for glucose, with levels less than one percent, ‘Haden’ and ‘Ataulfo’ excelled with 0.4% and were superior to the other cultivars (Figure 4).

3.4. Nutraceutical and Vitamin Analysis

Table 4. Effect (p-value) of the cultivar on the functional indices of fresh mango pulp (fp) at consumption ripeness.

Functional Index	Ataulfo	Manila	Haden	Criollo	HSD	p-Value
Total Phenolics (mg EAG 100−1 g fp)	64.06 ± 2.84 a	42.35 ± 4.13 b	57.65 ± 3.73 ab	59.84 ± 4.60 ab	20.08	0.0384
Flavonoids (mg EQ 100−1 g fp)	3.26 ± 0.19 a	2.14 ± 0.09 b	3.27 ± 0.08 a	2.61 ± 0.14 ab	0.70	0.0023
DPPH (µm ET 100−1 g fp)	87.28 ± 9.19 a	108.18 ± 5.63 a	28.14 ± 3.07 b	36.84 ± 3.21 b	30.46	<0.0001
Total carotenoids (mg 100−1 g fp)	404.98 ± 8.95 b	375.30 ± 4.14 b	701.65 ± 9.35 a	299.83 ± 24.48 c	72.52	<0.0001
Vitamin A (μg Eq. Retinol 100−1 g fp)	962.50 ± 46.09 a	361.45 ± 11.74 b	767.18 ± 48.23 a	807.52 ± 46.26 a	218.23	<0.0001
Vitamin C (mg Ascorbic Ac. 100−1 g fp)	26.88 ± 0.64 b	14.36 ± 0.27 c	10.72 ± 0.33 c	66.29 ± 4.00 a	10.62	<0.0001

Means with different letters in rows indicate significant differences (Tukey p ≤ 0.05). HSD: honest significant difference. DPPH: antioxidant capacity, 2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidracilo.

shows the results for crucial nutraceutical compounds in the fresh pulp of the four mango cultivars. Ataulfo, Haden, and Criollo had statistically similar values for the total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity (DPPH). Mango pulp is recommended for its provitamin A content, with Ataulfo showing the highest statistical content compared to the other cultivars. Regarding vitamin C, Criollo had the highest concentration, with 66 mg of ascorbic acid, surpassing the other cultivars.

4. Discussion

In this study, it was confirmed that mango cultivars exhibit differences in nutritional, mineral, sugar, carbohydrate, and nutraceutical compositions. These variations in nutritional content, which align with previous reports [5,31], contribute to our understanding of the diversity in mango cultivars.

The average mineral content reported by the USDA [6] for Tommy Atkins, Keitt, Kent, or Haden mango cultivars is similar to those studied, indicating good fruit development under the growing conditions with an important contribution of minerals. Among the mineral content of the pulp from the four mango cultivars analyzed, potassium was found to have the highest concentration, particularly in ‘Criollo’, contributing 3.3% of the Daily Recommended Intake (DRI) according to reports by [31]. This finding contrasts with the potassium levels reported in the mango pericarp and seed [32,33], suggesting that mango pulp is a rich source of this mineral, which aligns with previous reports [34]. On the other hand, the iron content in the Manila pulp is comparable to that of the pericarp, while the zinc content in the pericarp exceeds that in the pulp. Calcium is identified as the third most concentrated mineral in the pulp, with Haden showing the highest concentration of this mineral [35]. These results highlight the variability in the mineral content among the different cultivars, a phenomenon also observed in the mineral content of the pericarp, which varies according to the cultivation region [36]. This aspect underscores the need to consider cultivation conditions, as they significantly influence the mineral composition of mangoes, as noted by the Institute of Tropical Fruit Research [36].

The average values of proximate composition for mango fruit recorded by the Agricultural Research Service of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) [6] are consistent with the average data obtained for each component of the proximate composition of the four cultivars analyzed in this study. Similarly, the proximate composition tables published by the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition Salvador Zubirán (INCMNSZ) report the nutritional content of mango in general and for specific cultivars such as Ataulfo, Criollo, and Manila [37]. The results agree with the specifications in these tables. Of the four cultivars evaluated, ‘Ataulfo’ has the highest content of available sugars and caloric contribution, while the protein, fat, and ash levels are below 1%. Likewise, it is confirmed that the ‘Criollo’ mango has the highest dietary fiber content, indicating that consuming 100 g of ‘Criollo’ mango can provide 10% of the recommended daily intake for fiber.

Regarding the dietary fiber content, the INCMNSZ does not specify the soluble and insoluble fiber content, which is information obtained in this study. The different proportions of these two types of dietary fiber are relevant due to their distinct biological functionalities, which depend on their different physicochemical properties. A balanced content of soluble and insoluble fiber is desirable, as both contribute differently and their effects on the body complement each other. While insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) has a high capacity for bile acid absorption and cation exchange, soluble dietary fiber (SDF) can reduce cholesterol and glucose absorption and is efficiently fermented by intestinal bacteria, which induces more significant development and diversity in the gut microbiota [37,38,39]. The latter is associated with a lower incidence of metabolic diseases and obesity [40]. The proportion of both types of dietary fiber in the evaluated mango showed differences, with the proportion of IDF and SDF being similar in the Ataulfo and Criollo cultivars. With this characteristic, these two cultivars might contribute to better physiological effects on human health [5].

Regarding nutraceutical components, Ataulfo, a popular variety known for its sweet and creamy texture, stood out with the highest contents of total phenolic compounds and flavonoids, while Manila, another widely grown variety, had the lowest levels of these phytochemical compounds. These differences between the cultivars have been previously reported [41]. Other studies have demonstrated that ‘Ataulfo’ contains significantly higher amounts of bioactive compounds and exhibits greater in vitro antioxidant capacity [42,43].

A strong correlation has also been demonstrated between higher in vitro antioxidant capacity and more content of phenolic compounds [44], including the individual contribution of specific phenolic acids to antioxidant activity [30]. Similarly, it has been documented that Ataulfo exhibits a significant anticancer effect associated with a high concentration of polyphenols [43].

The highest carotenoid content was found in the Haden cultivar, which can be related to its characteristic intense color, whereas Criollo had the lowest content. Ataulfo stood out for its high carotenoid pigment content, primarily vitamin A (beta-carotene). It has been reported to contain up to three times more vitamin A than the other commercial varieties in North America. It has a pigment and polyphenol content similar to that of the Ubá cultivar, which is popular in Brazil and distinguished by its abundance of phytochemical compounds compared to the other commercial cultivars [44]. ‘Criollo’ excelled in vitamin C content compared to the other cultivars, with a vitamin C contribution of 90 mg [6]; so, 100 g of fresh mango pulp from the cultivars in this study can provide between 12% and 73% of the RDI for vitamin C.

5. Conclusions

The nutritional, mineral, and nutraceutical qualities are dependent on the mango cultivar produced on the Southern Pacific coast of Mexico. The mango, and especially the Criollo cultivar, are considered nutritious and functional foods in diets because they have high concentrations of potassium, magnesium, sodium, zinc, ash, protein, fat, dietary fiber, and vitamin C. Manila fruits bring the iron necessary for diet. Haden mangoes provide calcium, manganese, carotenoids, and flavonoids, essential parameters in human recommended daily intake. Ataulfo fruits are appreciated for their international market sensory attributes, and in this study, it showed to be competitive in copper, sugars, phenolic compounds, DPPH, and vitamin A. The variability in the quality and composition of mango pulp highlights the importance of selecting appropriate cultivars that offer consumers the most significant nutritional benefits.

6. Limitations and Future Perspectives

This work is one of the first investigations carried out regarding the nutritional, chemical, and postharvest qualities of different mango cultivars produced in the southeastern region of Mexico (state of Guerrero); however, data were generated from only one harvest period. It is necessary to continue researching the quality of mangoes produced in this important production area, and to expand the research to fertilization protocols and/or technologies that help increase productivity and quality.