Characterization of starch in Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) found at different altitudes

Abstract

Research on non-conventional and regionally adapted starchy plants becomes essential in order to increase the possibilities of use, especially for local / traditional communities. The aim of this study was to characterize starch granules from Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) found at different altitudes in the state of Santa Catarina. For this purpose, starch granules were extracted from NUS white ginger lily (Hedychium coronarium) and cumbungi (Typha domingensis) and analyzed for shape using the SHAPE computer program. It was observed that the cumbungi granules presented no morphological differences under the conditions analyzed, besides having small granules, whereas the marsh lily presented larger granules and varied in different altitudes. White ginger lily starch granules can be used as potential for the production of fermented beverages and cumbungi as a substitute for fats in foods and the development of cosmetics.