The effects of temperature and senescence on the accumulation of reducing sugars during storage of potato (Solanum tuberosum L) tubers: A mathematical model

A dynamic mathematical model based on underlying physiological processes is developed to describe, analyze and predict the storage behaviour of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tubers in terms of accumulation of reducing sugars. The data necessary for calibration and validation of the model were gathered during long term storage experiments over a wide range of storage temperatures for several seasons and cultivars. Although the model is based on a considerable simplification of the occurring physiological processes, it is capable of accounting for about 95% of the storage behaviour, including both cold-induced and senescent sweetening. The concept is postulated that the state of maturity at time of harvest determines storage behaviour through the initial amount of enzyme (or enzyme system) responsible for cold-induced sweetening.