Effects of the degree of maturity on the chemical composition, physical characteristics and sensory attributes of peach (Prunus persica) cv. Caterin

Sensory quality of peach during ripening to assess the best state for consumption was analysed. Physical and chemical parameters commonly used for establishing the commercial quality of this fruit were also determined: Soluble solids, acidity, sugars, organic acids, chlorophyll, carotenoids, resistance to compression and to penetration and colour. Relationships among these parameters and sensory characteristics were also analysed. A panel of eight trained assessors evaluated intensities of 12 sensory attributes (1 for odour, 2 for colour, 4 for flavour and 5 for texture). The sensory attributes selected allowed the description of perceivable differences between peaches of different degrees of maturity, although the variation in intensity of the attributes followed different trends. Colour intensity increased and acidity, firmness and crispness decreased significantly with ripening. Intensity of flavour, sweetness and fruitiness increased significantly from the under-ripe to semi-ripe states, and then decreased on reaching ripeness. It can be concluded that the most suitable time for harvesting and consumption of this peach variety was the state described herein as semi-ripe, and that a high correlation existed between colour intensity and hardness and the instrumental measurements of colour and texture.