Analysis of Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis) Sap as a Raw Material for Red Sugar Production

Oil palm sap is a potential alternative raw material for producing palm sugar because it contains high levels of sugars, namely approximately 86% glucose and 15-17% sucrose.This study aims to determine the sugar content and physicochemical properties of palm sugar derived from oil palm sap, to analyze its production process efficiently, and to evaluate the quality of the final product based on organoleptic and chemical parameters.The research method used was descriptive quantitative analysis, including water content and insoluble matter determination using the gravimetric method, as well as zinc (Zn) content analysis using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS).The results showed that the produced palm sugar had a characteristic aroma and taste, a natural brown color, and a normal solid form.The water content was 10.3%, the insoluble fraction was 1.06%, and the zinc content was 1.18 mg/kg.These findings indicate that the product has good physical quality, is safe for consumption, and is stable during storage, although the Zn content is relatively low.This study demonstrates that oil palm sap can serve as an alternative raw material for palm sugar production with economic value and the potential to improve farmers' livelihoods.