RESUMO
This study was performed to extract, identify and determine the residual natural pigments in samani date processing wastes after manufacturing of date jam. The aim of this study is also extended to investigate the possibility of utilization of the separated natural pigments in coloring some well known candy like products such as Lolita which are very famous among children in Egypt. The results revealed that carotenoids were the predominant pigments in samani date wastes. The carotenoids content was about 5.84% [on dry weight basis]. The fractionation and identification studies revealed about nine components in the separated carotenoids including lycopene, Beta-carotene, Beta-Cryptoxanthin, Canxanthin, Antheraxanthin, Zeaxanthin, Echineone, Violaxanthin, and Lutein. It was also ascertained that it may be applicable to utilize the separated natural carotenoids in coloring the Lolita product. The product color was stable during storage of such product up to forty five days