The most important quality criteria of some homegrown black-currant varieties I. Ascorbic acid

Authors

• Taina Kuusi The State Institute for Technical Research, Laboratory for Food Research and Technology, Otaniemi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.23986/afsci.71645

Abstract

A comparative study has been made with a view to clarification of the quality properties of some home-grown black-currant varieties. Twelve varieties were examined; samples were obtained from 6 different localities, of which the southernmost was Piikkiö, and the northernmost Rovaniemi, over a period of three years. The analytical results were compared with the totals of heat, the totals of hours of sunshine, and the precipitaition during the years concerned. Ascorbic acid, one of the most important criteria of quality, was assayed by application of the method of Robinson & Stotz, slightly modified. On the basis of the results obtained, mutual comparison of the varieties studied is possible along with consideration of the possible effects of weather conditions and the degree of north latitude of the place of growth. It is well known that the ascorbic acid content is dependent upon the variety. Accordingly, the following diminishing sequence was found in the ascorbic acid content of the varieties studied: Boskoop, Roodknop, Westwick Choice, Wellington XXX, Gerby, Wellington X, Åström, Brödtorp, Goliath, Silvergieter, Janslunda and Black of Lepaa. In this series, the amount of ascorbic acid fell from 250 to 127 mg/100g; considerable variations occurred in each variety. As for weather conditions, the summer temperature showed the greatest effect; in general, low temperature increased the amount of ascorbic acid. However, Brödtorp and Black of Lepaa often formed an exception. The number of hours of sunshine produced a similar effect, but to a lesser degree; by contrast, precipitation evinced no clear-cut effect. The degree of north latitude of the locality also seems to exert some effect, probably mainly because a latitude further north means a lowering of the temperature, and consequent retardation of the ripening, which again causes higher ascorbic acid values. Comparison with published reports shows that in principle the present results are in line with those presented earlier. The differences might be attributable to different methods of assay, or variability in the varieties concerned. The northern latitude of the place of growth and the degree of maturity may be of importance.