Dry matter content was determined using the standard AOAC
method (AOAC, 1995). The method consists in drying at defined
pressure and temperature until the sample attains constant mass.
In the present study the soluble solids content was determined
using a digital Pocket PAL-1 refractometer made by ATAGO (Japan).
The measuring range of the apparatus was between 0 and 53 Brix
degrees with automatic temperature compensation ranging from
10 to 75C. Pumpkin puree reaction was determined with a pH meter PX-processor PM-600 made by TMS Electronics. Sugars were
assayed according to the Lane–Eynon method (PN-90A-75101/07