Cashew and apple nectars: Brazilian consumers can trust in labels?

Apple and cashew nectars are well accepted by Brazilian consumers and promise important sources of bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to determine the physicochemical characteristics of cashew and apple nectars of different brands and compare them with Brazilian Legislation. Analysis was made in triplicate for pH, Brix, acidity, ascorbic acid, anthocyanin, the ratio of total solids to citric acid in the case of cashew nectars, and to malic acid in apple nectars and total carbohydrate content. The results showed variation in some parameters for the nectars of different brands, however the most evident differences were found in the acidity, anthocyanins and ratio analysis. It was found that the Brazilian Legislation for this kind of products is flawed for pH parameters, ratio and does not determine Identity and Quality Standards for apple nectar. For vitamin C results, among the evaluated brands, only one was in agreement with the nutritional parameters found in the labels. We suggest that there is an immediate need to establish the identity parameters of apple and cashew nectars so that the consumers can rely on labeling and can make the choice according to their desire.