The free
galactose content was determined in three soy beverages, and 34 selected fruits and vegetables purchased at different times of the year and/or local markets in British Columbia, Canada. The objective of the work was to provide additional information on the free
galactose content of foods to assist individuals with
galactosemia in making dietary decisions. Free
galactose contents in the selected plant materials ranged from 2.0 +/- 0.1 mg/100 g in red potato to 39.7 +/- 1.9 mg/100 g in red pepper. Different time of the season, variety, and storage of the product affected the free
galactose contents in most of the plant materials measured in this study. Free
galactose levels in kiwi, green seedless grapes, and bell peppers were found to be higher than previous reports, whereas the amount of free
galactose in three varieties of tomatoes was significantly lower than previously reported. An evaluation of the change of
galactose in Roma tomatoes during ripening showed that free
galactose levels increased linearly over time, and storage at 4 degrees C significantly increased free
galactose levels in tomatoes. Soy beverages made from
soy protein isolate contained less free
galactose (1.3 +/- 0.2 mg /100 g) compared to the samples made from whole soybeans (4.8 +/- 1.9 and 5.3 +/- 1.7 mg/ 100 g). This study provides additional information on the range of free
galactose in fruits and vegetables which will allow individuals with
galactosemia to make more informed dietary choices.