Changes in pigment profile and surface colour of fig (Ficus carica L.) during drying

In this study, anthocyanins in three fresh fig varieties (Ficus carica L.) cultivated in Turkey were characterised and quantified by HPLC/DAD and HPLC/MS. In addition, the carotenoid composition of Sarilop and Sarizeybek, yellow fig varieties, was determined, and then the ripening- and drying-related changes in carotenoids and surface colour of figs were monitored during conventional sun-drying. Four different anthocyanins, cyanidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside, cyanidin-3-rutinoside (major anthocyanin) and pelargonidin-3-glucoside, were identified in samples. Lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-cryptoxanthin and beta-carotene were carotenoids in yellow fig varieties. Approximately 80% of carotenoid compounds in yellow fig varieties degraded at the end of drying (i.e. seventh day). L (lightness), a (redness and greenness) and b (yellowness and blueness) colour parameters were measured by Hunter Lab system. Great changes in carotenoid composition and surface colour were observed at ripening stage on tree. A significant reduction in L and b values that refers to browning in figs was made in the first 3 days of drying process.