Non-destructive determination of quality parameters in nectarines during on-tree ripening and postharvest storage

Changes in physical-chemical properties of nectarines (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch cv. Sweet Lady) were studied during on-tree ripening and postharvest refrigerated storage, using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. Two commercially available spectrometers were evaluated for this purpose: a handheld micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) spectrometer of 1600-2400 nm and a diode-array Vis-NIR spectrophotometer of 400-1700 nm. Analysis covered a sample of 144 nectarines during on-tree ripening, and another one of 220 nectarines during postharvest storage (0 degrees C, 95% RH). Spectra and analytical data were used to develop MPLS (modified partial least squares) calibration equations to quantify changes in Soluble Solids content (SSC) (%), flesh firmness (N), fruit weight (g) and diameter (equatorial diameter; cm), these being the major parameters Used to chart ripening and measure shelf-life in this fruit. Both NIRS instruments provided good precision for SSC (r(2) = 0.89; SEP = 0.75-0.81%) and for firmness (r(2) = 0.84-0.86: SEP = 11.6-12.7 N). The diode-array instrument predicted well the two other physical parameters tested (r(2) = 0.98 and SEP = 5.40 g for fruit weight; and r(2) = 0.75 and SEP = 0.46 cm for diameter), while the hand-held MEMS instrument proved less accurate in this respect. The results show that changes in nectarine quality parameters can be measured non-destructively, with a single spectrum measurement and in a matter of seconds, during both on-tree ripening and postharvest storage, paving the way for using the handheld instruments to assist growers in making harvesting decisions in the field. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.