IDENTIFICATION OF GEOGRAPHICAL ORIGIN BASED ON QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS AND TRACE ELEMENTS IN 100% COFFEA ARABICA GREEN BEANS

Abstract

This study investigates green coffee beans' physicochemical properties and trace metal content from three major coffee-growing regions: America, Africa, and Asia. Results revealed that American beans had the highest dry matter content (92.00%), followed by African (91.58%) and Asian (91.06%) beans, with variations attributed to environmental factors and post-harvest practices. Water activity was lowest in African (0.47) and American (0.47) samples, suggesting microbial stability compared to Asian beans (0.544). Based on Anova we can see significantly higher differences in parameters water activity in Asian samples. The pH remained stable across all regions (5.75-5.76), indicating that pH is more influenced by genetic factors than environmental ones. Concentrations of nine trace elements were measured, with Pb and Cd being below detection limits in all samples, emphasizing coffee safety. Trace elements analysis using Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), and hierarchical clustering demonstrated (AHC) distinct regional differentiation based on metal profiles, particularly with Cu, Zn, and Cr. Water-soluble compound analysis revealed regional distinctions, with African samples showing higher variability. The correlation between bioactive compounds and trace metals indicated that elements such as Zn and Mn may enhance antioxidant activity, whereas excessive Cu could inhibit the biosynthesis of key antioxidants. These findings underscore the potential of using chemical profiles for origin authentication, quality control, and traceability in the coffee industry.