Effects of organic farming system on some nutritional parameters of tomatoes fruits at different ripening stages

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) are the most cultivated and consumed vegetable species in the world and deserve special attention due to their nutritional and functional value. The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional value of organically grown tomatoes in greenhouses, at different maturity phases. Five hybrids were studied: Antalya F-1, Cemile F-1, Lorely F-1, Tiger F-1 and Sacher F-1. The observed parameters in each harvest phase were: Content of chlorophyll a and b, total carotenoids, total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and titratable acidity (TA). Taking into account the content of TSS and TA, taste and maturity index was established. Tiger F-1, Sacher F-1 and Cemile F-1 hybrids were significantly standing out for all analysed parameters. Sacher F-1 had a carotene content of 10.3 mg 100 g(-1) FW in green fruit and 17.0 mg 100 g(-1) FW in red fruit. Vitamin C was 6.2 mg 100 g(-1) FW in green fruits, increasing to 16.0 mg 100 g(-1) FW in red fruits. The mineral content depended on the hybrid and harvest stage. In the rose phase the highest K content was in Cemile F (1) (151.53 mg 100(-1) g), Ca in Lorely F-1 (8.16 mg 100 g(-1)), Mg in Sacher F-1 and Tiger F-1 with values over 22.0 mg 100 g(-1), and Tiger F-1 and Sacher F-1 distinguish in Zn, Cu and Fe content. In the red fruit phase, Tiger F-1 and Sacher F-1 hybrids are representative for almost all minerals excepting Lorely F-1 and Cemile F-1.