Analysis and identification of several apple varieties using ISFETs sensors

There are a number of variables that are useful to determine the optimal moment for the fruit collection such as starch content, sugar content, acidity and firmness. Other variables, including calcium and potassium concentrations, may establish better the state of ripeness of fruit and can help to optimise the collection process as well as augmenting the nutritional value of fruits. At present, these novel parameters cannot be used for the control of fruit collection due to the slow standard methods required. The need for in situ and in real-time ion measurements calls for fast response sensors and simpler and portable instrumentation. Solid-state sensors respond to these requirements. This work describes the application of ISFET sensors to analyse calcium, potassium and nitrates in several apple varieties, both in juice and in situ fruit. Results show that the analysis of potassium, calcium and nitrate permits to distinguish among apple varieties and can also be used to determine correctly the concentrations of these ions. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.