Journal of Applied Agricultural Science and Technology

Optimization of Blanching Temperature and Nori Incorporation in the Production of Moringa oleifera-Based Food Seasoning

Mohammad Prasanto Bimantio — 2026-08-21

The utilisation of moringa leaves as a functional food ingredient is constrained by nutrient losses during thermal processing and limited sensory acceptability due to undesirable flavour characteristics. Optimising blanching conditions while incorporating umami-rich nori is therefore essential to improve antioxidant retention, nutritional quality, and consumer acceptance of moringa-based seasonings. This study aimed to optimise blanching temperature and nori incorporation in the formulation of moringa flake (Bon Kelor), a functional food seasoning. A factorial experimental design was employed with three blanching temperatures (70°C, 80°C, and 90°C) and three levels of nori (5%, 10%, and 15%). Analyses included antioxidant activity (DPPH), proximate composition, sodium content, and hedonic sensory evaluation. The results showed significant effects of both blanching and nori concentration on antioxidant activity, macronutrient levels, and organoleptic properties (p < 0.05). The best formulation was obtained at 90°C with 15% nori, featuring high antioxidant activity (73.72%), protein (18.34%), and energy (370.39 kcal/100 g). The by-difference method revealed increased carbohydrate content with nori addition, attributed to water-soluble polysaccharides. Sensory analysis confirmed high panellist acceptance for colour, aroma, and taste. Blanching enhanced nutrient retention, reduced moisture, and improved flavour. In summary, combining thermal treatment with seaweed enrichment offers a valuable strategy to produce nutritious and acceptable moringa-based food products.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Object-Based Image Analysis in Mapping High Visual Similarity Objects from Conventional Drone Imagery (A Case Study: The Maturity Level of Sago)

Iriansa Iriansa — 2026-08-21

Conventional Red-Green-Blue (RGB) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery offers a cost-effective alternative for precision agriculture; however, its limited spectral separability constrains classification when target classes exhibit high visual similarity, particularly in non-cultivated areas with dense vegetation. Maturity assessment of sago palm (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) exemplifies this challenge: identification of the harvestable stage remains dependent on labour-intensive field inspection, and delayed identification causes stem mortality and yield loss. This study evaluates an Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) framework for discriminating three sago maturity levels (Young, Harvestable, Overripe) from RGB orthomosaics and a Digital Surface Model over a 9-hectare non-cultivated site in Wailawi, North Luwu, Indonesia, using a DJI Phantom 4 Pro at 50 m altitude. Multi-resolution segmentation generated 6,210 crown-level objects, classified by Random Forest under two configurations: a five-feature set and a seventeen-feature set optimised through Recursive Feature Elimination. Evaluation used 600 independent objects (200 per class) from the testing partition through stratified random sampling, re-labelled by visual interpretation, with 95% confidence intervals from 1,000 bootstrap resamples. The seventeen-feature model outperformed the baseline, yielding Overall Accuracy of 93.00% (95% CI: 91.00–94.83) versus 89.00% (86.83–91.50), Macro-F1 of 92.92% versus 88.92%, and Cohen's Kappa of 0.895 (0.860–0.922) against 0.835 (0.795–0.873). Classification uncertainty concentrated at the Young-Harvestable boundary, whereas Overripe was consistently discriminated (F1 = 98.77%). Visible-band spectral statistics, GLCM and GLDV texture descriptors, and DSM-derived structural features contributed most to accuracy, while geometric descriptors showed marginal influence. The framework establishes a robust and economically accessible pathway for operational sago maturity monitoring.

Comparison of Bioactive Compounds in Local and Imported Coriander Leaf ExtractsUsing GC-MS

Alfi Asben — 2026-08-21

Coriander leaves contain bioactive compounds that are beneficial to health, but the content can differ depending on the origin and environmental conditions where they grow. Coriander leaves of local Indonesian or imported origin differ in their characteristics and bioactive compound content, necessitating analysis of both types. This study aims to analyse the bioactive compounds in the extract of local Indonesian coriander leaves from Bukittinggi, West Sumatra, and imported coriander from Egypt using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Coriander leaves were extracted using 96% ethanol in an ultrasonic bath. The extract was analysed for pH, antioxidant and antibacterial activity, residual ethanol content, and GC–MS to identify the compounds present. The results showed that the local Bukittinggi coriander leaf extract had a pH of 4.01, antioxidant activity based on DPPH inhibition of 88.34%, antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus with a clear zone diameter of 23.38 mm, and a residual ethanol content of 0.68%. Meanwhile, the imported Egyptian coriander leaf extract had a pH of 3.68, antioxidant activity of 83.25%, antibacterial activity of 26.00 mm, and a residual ethanol content of 0.00%. Imported Egyptian coriander leaves exhibited higher antibacterial activity and lower residual ethanol content than local Bukittinggi coriander leaves. However, local Bukittinggi coriander leaves demonstrated greater antioxidant activity than the imported Egyptian leaves. GC–MS analysis revealed that the local Bukittinggi coriander leaf extract contained organic compounds such as 3,5-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) phenol, phytol, and dl-α-tocopherol, unlike the imported Egyptian coriander leaf extract

Microbiological Stability of Traditional Rendang Boleces Prepared from Spent Hen Meat Under Ambient Storage Conditions

Rahmi Holinesti — 2026-08-21

Spent hen meat has potential as an alternative raw material for traditional ready-to-eat meat products; however, its microbiological quality during storage requires evaluation. This study assessed the microbiological quality of rendang boleces (a meatball-like product) prepared from spent hen meat using Total Plate Count (TPC) analysis and Salmonella spp. detection. Samples were stored under ambient conditions (25–28°C) for 0, 2, 4, and 6 days. TPC values increased during storage, from 2.67 log CFU/g on day 0 to 4.63 log CFU/g on day 6. Samples stored for up to two days remained within the maximum permissible limit established by the Indonesian National Standard (SNI). In contrast, higher microbial counts were observed on days 4 and 6, indicating progressive microbial growth during extended storage. Salmonella spp. was not detected in any sample throughout the observation period. These findings indicate that rendang boleces maintained acceptable microbiological quality for up to two days under ambient storage conditions. The study also highlights the importance of appropriate storage and hygienic handling practices to maintain the quality of ready-to-eat meat products derived from spent hen meat while supporting the sustainable utilization of poultry resources in line with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Response of Seed Production and Pollen Viability in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) to Potassium and Boron Fertilizer Application

Leli Kurniasari — 2026-08-21

The improvement of cucumber cultivation practices, such as proper seed selection and appropriate fertilization, has the potential to enhance seed production and quality. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the most effective combination of potassium and boron fertilizer doses to improve seed production and pollen viability in cucumber. A randomized block design (RCBD) with two treatment factors was used. The first factor was potassium dose, applied at three levels: 100 kg/ha, 200 kg/ha, and 300 kg/ha. The second factor was boron dose, applied at four levels: 0 kg/ha, 1 kg/ha, 2 kg/ha, and 3 kg/ha. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, with a comprehensive set of observation parameters. In conclusion, no significant interaction was observed between potassium and boron treatments across all observed parameters. The treatment of 300 kg/ha potassium had a highly significant effect on the number of seeds per fruit (342.53), the number of filled seeds per fruit (289.93), seed weight per fruit (7.13 g), filled seed weight per fruit (8.24 g), and seed production per hectare (253.64 kg). Boron fertilizer treatment at a dose of 1 kg/ha had a highly significant effect on the time to emergence of male flowers (23.44 DAP), the time to emergence of female flowers (26.33 DAP), filled seed weight per fruit (7.86 g), and seed production per hectare (241.72 kg).

Value Addition and Business Model Adaptation in Arabica Coffee Processing: A Mixed-Methods Study

Mubarokah Mubarokah — 2026-08-21

Although Arabica coffee prices may be favorable in certain periods, increased production during peak harvest seasons can create excess supply and expose farmers to price declines, particularly when farmers rely mainly on selling coffee cherries or green beans with limited value addition. Therefore, downstream processing is needed to capture higher added value and reduce farmers’ vulnerability to market volatility. This study aims to analyze the added value generated from Arabica coffee processing and map the business model adaptation of farmer groups in Trawas District, Mojokerto Regency, East Java Province. The study was conducted from January to June 2023 using a mixed-methods approach that combined quantitative value-added analysis with qualitative Business Model Canvas mapping. The Hayami method was used to calculate value added, while interviews, field observations, and focus group discussions identified business model components and development strategies. The results show that processing red coffee cherries into green beans generated an added value of IDR 4,975.00/kg with a value-added ratio of 39.48%, indicating a moderate level of value creation. In contrast, processing green beans into ground coffee generated a much higher added value of IDR 102,250.00/kg with a value-added ratio of 90.88%, indicating a high level of value creation. These findings demonstrate that downstream processing into ground coffee provides substantially greater economic benefits than green bean processing. Practically, farmer groups need to strengthen processing capacity, product quality control, packaging, branding, digital marketing, and institutional partnerships to capture higher value and reduce vulnerability to price fluctuations caused by excess supply during peak harvest periods.

Edible Coating from Cassava Peel Starch and Elephantopus scaber Leaf Extract on Cavendish Banana Preservation

Desi Rejeki — 2026-08-21

Bananas (Musa spp.) are highly nutritious tropical fruits with significant commercial value, but their short shelf life poses a major challenge due to rapid climacteric ripening, increased respiration, ethylene production, and susceptibility to microbial spoilage. However, many synthetic coatings currently used to extend fruit shelf life raise health and environmental concerns, creating an urgent need for safe, biodegradable, and effective edible coating alternatives. This study evaluated the efficacy of an edible coating based on cassava peel starch extract enriched with Elephantopus scaber extract in preserving the quality of Cavendish bananas over 15 days of storage. The experiment included four treatments: a negative control (uncoated), a positive control (coated with cassava peel starch only), and two concentrations of Elephantopus scaber extract—5 mg/mL (Es 5) and 10 mg/mL (Es 10)—added to the cassava starch coating. Parameters assessed included weight loss, moisture content (peel and pulp), fruit firmness, and functional group characterization using FTIR spectroscopy. The results showed that the Es 10 treatment was most effective, reducing weight loss to just 29.66% by day 15, markedly lower than the negative control (47.33%) and positive control (33.01%). Moisture retention was also superior in Es 10-treated bananas, with pulp moisture remaining at 86.00% on day 15, indicating the coating's role as an effective barrier against water loss. Firmness measurements revealed a controlled increase in Es 10 samples, reaching 31.2 kPa/cm² by the end of storage, suggesting delayed senescence. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of the extract into the starch matrix, highlighting bioactive compound signatures that suggest the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which may confer antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Nevertheless, the food safety and regulatory status of Elephantopus scaber extract for direct food contact applications has not yet been established, which represents a key limitation for practical adoption and requires future toxicological evaluation. The combination of cassava peel starch and 10 mg/mL Elephantopus scaber extract offers a promising natural coating to extend the shelf life of Cavendish bananas by synergistically limiting transpiration and modulating ripening processes.

Utilizationof Rice Husk-derived Microsilica as a Reinforcing Agent in MOCAF Starch-based Bioplastics: Enhancing Mechanical Strength, Barrier Properties and Thermal Stability

Ruri Wijayanti — 2026-08-21

Starch-based bioplastics are increasingly recognized as eco-friendly substitutes for conventional synthetic plastics owing to their renewable origins and biodegradability. However, their poor mechanical properties and high affinity for water limit their practical applications. In this study, microsilica derived from rice husks was incorporated as a reinforcing agent to enhance the performance of bioplastics based on a modified cassava flour (MOCAF) starch matrix. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of bioplastics with a MOCAF starch matrix and microsilica added at various concentrations. Bioplastics were prepared with the solution casting method involving starch extraction, gelatinization, addition of microsilica at varying concentrations (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5%), incorporation of a plasticizer (glycerol) and subsequent molding. The results demonstrated that microsilica addition significantly affected the physicochemical properties of the bioplastics. Tensile strength increased with microsilica content, reaching a maximum of 3.73 MPa at 5 wt%, followed by decreases at higher concentrations. Conversely, elongation at break decreased with increasing microsilica content, indicating reduced flexibility. Water absorption also decreased, indicating increased water resistance in the bioplastics. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed the interaction between microsilica and the starch matrix, while thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed increased thermal stability after the addition of microsilica. Overall, the incorporation of microsilica effectively improved the mechanical, thermal and barrier properties of the MOCAF-based bioplastics, highlighting their potential for developing more durable and environmentally friendly materials.

Integrating Climate Variables into Coconut Production Forecasting: A Comparative Analysis of ARIMA and ARIMAX Models for Climate-Informed Decision Support

Hermiza Mardesci — 2026-08-21

Coconut is a strategic plantation commodity in Padang Pariaman Regency, Indonesia, whose productivity is increasingly influenced by climate variability. Accurate, climate-responsive forecasting is therefore essential to support production planning and early warning systems. This study aims to develop and evaluate a climate-informed ARIMAX model for forecasting coconut production and assessing its potential application in an early warning framework. Annual coconut production data for 2014–2024 were combined with climate variables, including rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind speed, and the number of rainy days. A baseline ARIMA model was first identified, followed by ARIMAX modeling using Maximum Likelihood Estimation. Model selection was based on Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), while forecasting performance was evaluated using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). The results showed that ARIMA(1,1,1) was identified as the optimal baseline model and achieved the lowest forecasting errors based on RMSE and MAPE, indicating its strong capability in capturing the temporal pattern of coconut production. The incorporation of climate variables through ARIMAX demonstrated that rainfall and the number of rainy days significantly influenced coconut production, while temperature, humidity, and wind speed exhibited weaker effects. To improve model stability and avoid multicollinearity, a simplified log-ARIMAX(1,1,1) model was developed by retaining rainfall as the primary exogenous variable. This model achieved the lowest AIC value among the evaluated climate-based models, indicating improved parsimony and explanatory capability. Forecasting results for 2025–2029 indicate a moderate and continuous increase in coconut production. Although ARIMA provides superior predictive accuracy, the rainfall-based ARIMAX model offers additional insights into climate–production relationships, making it valuable for supporting climate-informed forecasting and the future development of early warning frameworks for coconut plantation productivity.

Drying Performance and Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of a Circular-Pipe Conical-Floor Paddy In-Store Dryer

Diswandi Nurba — 2026-08-21

The in-store dryer (ISD) is a well-established convective drying-storage system; however, conventional designs often suffer from uneven airflow distribution and inefficient heat transfer. To address this gap, this study introduces a novel configuration featuring a circular-pipe conical floor and an improved hot-air supply arrangement through axial-blower repositioning and inlet-air regulation to enhance airflow uniformity. Drying experiments were conducted using 300 kg of paddy over an 8-h drying period. The measured operating condition was then applied as the boundary condition for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation. The improved ISD maintained relatively stable drying conditions, with a mean chamber temperature of 37.13 °C, internal RH of 57.32%, and an inlet airflow rate of 0.66 m³ s⁻¹ (corresponding to a velocity of 5.35 m s⁻¹ during blower operation). Paddy moisture content decreased from 17.78% to 10.44% (w.b.), corresponding to an apparent moisture reduction rate of 0.92 percentage points h⁻¹. The estimated total specific energy consumption was 20.98 MJ kg⁻¹ water evaporated. CFD validation, performed by comparing simulated data with measured values at specific sensor points inside the drying chamber, showed acceptable to good agreement, with RMSE values of 0.54 °C for temperature, 1.73% for RH, and 0.38 m s⁻¹ for airflow velocity, and correlation coefficients of 0.81, 0.76, and 0.84, respectively. These results indicate that the improved ISD achieved effective bulk paddy drying and that the validated CFD model adequately represented the internal airflow and thermal-humidity behavior of the system.

Efficacy of Emprit Ginger Extract Containing Shogaol Compounds Armyworm (Spodoptera Litura) Larvae

Yabez Yabez — 2026-08-21

Spodoptera litura is a polyphagous pest that causes serious damage to various agricultural commodities. Control methods that still rely on synthetic pesticides negatively influence the environment and health, necessitating more environmentally friendly control alternatives. This study aims to determine the efficacy of ginger extract (Zingiber officinale var. amarum), which contains shogaol compounds, on the mortality of third instar S. litura larvae. The study was conducted experimentally using a one-factor completely randomized design (CRD) with six treatment levels: a positive control (fenite 150 OD), a negative control (Aquades), and ginger extract concentrations of 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%, each with four replicates. Mortality tests were conducted using the topical application method and observed for 72 h. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Tukey's test, and probit analysis to determine the LC₅₀, LC₉₀, LT₅₀, and LT₉₀ values. The results showed that ginger extract treatment significantly influenced the mortality of S. litura larvae (Sig. = 0.032). The 8% concentration resulted in the highest mortality of 82.5% at 72 h and the highest efficacy value of 82.5%, approaching that of the positive control. The LT₅₀ and LT₉₀ values were 37.15 hours and 64.81 hours, respectively, while the LC₅₀ and LC₉₀ values were 0.815% and 23.134%. The extract treatment also caused morphological changes in the larvae, including changes in body color, shrinkage, and tissue damage. Emprit ginger extract containing 6.8% shogaol, particularly at an 8% extract concentration, has the potential to serve as an effective environmentally friendly biopesticide in controlling S. litura.

Fatty Acid Profile Comparison of Several Palm Cooking Oils Using Gas Chromatography–Flame Ionization Detection (GC–FID)

Susi Desminarti — 2026-08-21

Palm cooking oil is the primary source of vegetable oil widely consumed by the Indonesian population. The fatty acid profile of palm oil is an important parameter for assessing its nutritional value, oxidative stability during heating, and potential health implications. Variations in refining and fractionation processes, as well as differences in raw material sources, may lead to diversity in the fatty acid composition of commercially available cooking oils. This study aims to analyze and compare the profiles of saturated, unsaturated, cis–trans, and omega fatty acids in different commercial palm cooking oil brands. Five palm cooking oil samples available on the market were analyzed, consisting of four packaged oils (MG1–MG4) and one bulk oil (MG5). Fatty acid profiling was conducted using Gas Chromatography–Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) following derivatization into Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) via NaOCH₃–methanol transesterification. Fatty acids were identified and quantified by comparing retention times and chromatographic peak areas using the normalization method. The results showed that total saturated fatty acids ranged from 39.96 to 43.76%, dominated by palmitic acid (34.27–37.65%). Unsaturated fatty acids accounted for 56.18–59.98% of total fatty acids, with oleic acid (44.50–46.16%) and linoleic acid (11.18–13.14%) as the major components. Omega fatty acids were predominantly represented by omega-9, followed by omega-6, while omega-3 fatty acids were detected at very low levels. No trans fatty acids were detected in any of the samples. Overall, the fatty acid profiles of the analyzed palm cooking oils were consistent with those of commercially refined palm oil, characterized by oleic acid predominance, a relatively balanced proportion of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, and the absence of trans fatty acids. These features support good oxidative stability and are suitable for consumption.

Quantifying the Direct Relationship between Solar Radiation and Lysimeter-Measured Evapotranspiration of Cherry Tomato under Tropical Greenhouse Conditions

Ahmad Tusi — 2026-08-24

Despite advances in greenhouse technology, few studies have quantified the direct relationship between solar radiation and lysimeter-measured crop evapotranspiration (ETc) in cherry tomato under tropical greenhouse conditions. This study aimed to fill this gap by determining ETc of cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) using a weighing lysimeter (5 min intervals, November 28, 2023 to January 6, 2024) and analysing its relationship with solar radiation under different sky conditions. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse containing 32 plants arranged in two planting beds and irrigated with a drip system. All environmental and crop parameters were monitored through sensors integrated into a digital dashboard. Daily solar radiation ranged from 4.7 to 13.6 MJ m⁻² d⁻¹ (mean 9.0 MJ m⁻² d⁻¹), whereas ETc ranged from 2.03 to 3.19 mm day⁻¹ (mean 2.60 mm day⁻¹). A significant positive correlation was found (r = 0.717, R² = 0.514, p < 0.001), yielding the overall regression ETc = 0.069 × Rad + 2.004. A critical threshold of 8 MJ m⁻² d⁻¹ was identified: under sunny conditions (Rad ≥8), ETc = 0.074 × Rad + 2.000 (R² = 0.446, p < 0.001); under cloudy conditions (Rad <8), the near-zero slope (0.009, R² = 0.314) supported using mean ETc = 2.41 mm day⁻¹. Diurnal analysis revealed a 30–45 min ETc lag on sunny days, informing optimal irrigation timing (before 11:00–12:00). Water use efficiency was 33% higher on cloudy days (0.364 vs. 0.273 mm MJ⁻¹ m²). These empirical models can be directly embedded into automated irrigation systems, supporting precision irrigation practices in greenhouse cherry tomato cultivation under tropical conditions. Future research should focus on integrating VPD and physiological crop parameters to further improve ETc prediction accuracy under low-light conditions.

Influence of Light and Humidity on Infection Dynamics of Potential Entomopathogenic Fungus Against Spodoptera frugiperda

Ambar Susanti — 2026-08-29

The effectiveness of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) in suppressing insect pests is strongly influenced by environmental conditions, particularly light exposure and relative humidity. This study evaluated the effects of ambient light and relative humidity on the pathogenicity and infection dynamics of Simplicillium lanosoniveum against Spodoptera frugiperdalarvae. A completely randomized design factorial 2 x 2 was used, with light exposure (ambient light under open and dark under enclosed conditions) and relative humidity (45% RH and 80% RH) factors. Second–third instar larvae were inoculated with EPF, and each treatment included 25 individually reared larvae, arranged into five biological replicates of five larvae each, with each larva maintained in a separate. Larval mortality was recorded daily for 10 days and analyzed using a generalized linear model (GLM) with a binomial distribution. Ambient light exposure, relative humidity, and their interaction had no statistically significant effects on larval mortality (p > 0.05). Goodness-of-fit statistics indicated that the model adequately fit the data, with deviance and Pearson chi-square values close to unity. Numerically, the highest mortality (92%) and the shortest median lethal time (LT₅₀ = 6.4 days) were observed under dark conditions at 80% RH, whereas the lowest mortality (72%) and the longest LT₅₀ (8.3 days) occurred under ambient light at 45% RH Although the observed numerical pattern suggested a tendency toward faster infection under higher humidity, it was not statistically significant. Overall, S. lanosoniveum maintained relatively stable pathogenicity across the tested environmental conditions, indicating its potential for development as a biological control agent against S. frugiperda.

Response Surface Optimization of Drying Conditions for Processing Apa’ Leaves (Albertisia papuana Becc.) as a Plant, Based Natural Flavoring Ingredient

Titik Ismandari — 2026-08-29

Optimizing drying conditions while preserving quality attributes remains a key challenge in developing plant-based natural flavorings. This study aimed to determine suitable drying conditions for Albertisia papuana Becc. (Apa') leaves by evaluating the effects of drying temperature and time on moisture, ash, crude protein, and glutamic acid contents. Drying experiments were performed using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Design (CCD) at drying temperatures of 50–70 °C and times of 6–10 h. Moisture, ash, crude protein, and glutamic acid were analyzed as response variables. Drying temperature and time significantly affected moisture content (p < 0.05), but their effects on ash, crude protein, and glutamic acid were not statistically significant within the investigated range. The desirability function suggested drying at approximately 60–62 °C for 8 h as a practical operating condition for reducing moisture while maintaining the measured quality attributes. Under these conditions, moisture content was approximately 3.4–3.5%, while ash (6.0–6.2%), crude protein (20.4–20.6%), and glutamic acid (1.24–1.28 mg g⁻¹ dry weight) remained within the observed experimental ranges. Moisture and ash contents met the Indonesian National Standard for dried spices (SNI 01-4273-1996). Overall, moderate drying conditions effectively reduce moisture while preserving nutritional quality, providing a scientific basis for processing A. papuana leaves as a plant-based natural flavoring.

A Biotechnological Approach to Flavonoid Enrichment of Red Andong (Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev.) Leaves via Bacillus subtilis Solid-State Fermentation

Fahrauk Faramayuda — 2026-08-31

Red andong (Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev.) is a medicinal plant widely used in Indonesian traditional medicine and is known to contain secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, saponins, and polyphenols with demonstrated pharmacological value. Flavonoids are of particular interest due to their antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. Solid-state fermentation using Bacillus subtilis has emerged as a biotechnological strategy to enhance phytochemical content and bioavailability. This study aimed to: (i) quantify the total flavonoid content (TFC) of red andong leaf extracts subjected to B. subtilis ITBCCB112-mediated solid-state fermentation at 24 and 48 hours, compared to non-fermented controls; (ii) evaluate extraction yield as a function of fermentation duration; and (iii) assess the organoleptic characteristics of fermented verses non-fermented extracts. Fresh leaves were fermented at 37°C, followed by maceration in 70% ethanol. TFC was determined spectrophotometrically using the AlCl₃ colorimetric method with quercetin as the standard. The results showed a progressive increase in TFC from 0.34% (non-fermented) to 0.96% (24 hours) and 1.36% (48 hours), expressed as quercetin equivalents. These findings indicate that B. subtilis-mediated fermentation is an effective biotechnological approach for enhancing flavonoid content in C. fruticosa, with 48 hours producing the highest TFC among the durations tested. This study contributes to the valorization of Indonesian medicinal plants through microbial bioconversion strategies, with potential applications in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical product development.

A Bibliometric Analysis of Indonesian Scientific Literature on Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt)

Hasbullah Hasbullah — 2026-08-31

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt) is one of Indonesia’s indigenous plants with high economic value and has long been a leading global commodity. Despite the abundance of literature on nutmeg, no bibliometric study has provided a more comprehensive and objective quantitative mapping of research trends. This study aims to obtain bibliometric information of Indonesian scientific literature on nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt) and its development trends using the Scopus database. The analysis identified that Lesmana R. as the most relevant author, Padjadjaran University as the most relevant affiliated institution, "Potential natural dual agonist PPAR/-induced antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic properties of safrole-free nutmeg seed (Myristica fragrans Houtt) extract" as the most highly cited document, the IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science as the source with the most articles on nutmeg, and Malaysia as the most relevant collaborating country for Indonesian scientific literature on this topic. Recent keywords include “toxicity”, “chemometrics”, “broiler chicken”, “morphology”, “weight gain”, “gene expression”, “FTIR spectrophotometry”, “agricultural robot”, and “forestry”. It is recommended for future study to do microbiological evaluation in nutmeg trade and/or evaluation of nutmeg antioxidant activity through in vivo studies, including its relationship with glycemic status, to complement the Indonesian scientific literature on nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt).