Consumer preference and physicochemical evaluation of organically grown melons

Abstract

Challenges in cultivar selection and availability has inhibited the expansion of the organic melon market. This study evaluated the sensory and physicochemical properties of four organically grown melon cultivars over a two-year period at three growing locations; two honeydew cultivars: ‘Dulce Nectar’ and ‘Jaune’, and two cantaloupe cultivars: ‘Athena’ and ‘Sivan’. Trained and consumer panels evaluated 17 sensory attributes, including appearance, texture, flavor, and overall acceptance. Physicochemical measurements included flesh color, texture, pH, soluble solids content (SSC), and titratable acidity (TA). Results showed that ‘Sivan’ and ‘Athena’ were preferred by panelists for their flavor and overall eating quality; these cultivars also had relatively high SSC, high pH, and low TA. Conversely, ‘Jaune’ was the least preferred, with higher intensities of ‘veggie’ and ‘green’ flavors; this cultivar also had relatively low pH and high TA. Overall, ‘Sivan’ performed consistently better than all other cultivars both years, scoring highest in positive attributes, such as ‘sweetness’ and ‘juiciness’. This research can be used to support the organic melon industry in cultivar selection.