Differences in quality parameters and nutrient composition in Fukumoto oranges with and without creasing symptoms

Abstract

ABSTRACTCreasing is a physiological disorder in oranges fruits that affects rind quality. This disorder has been associated with insufficient or imbalances of nutrients in the fruit. A study was carried out in an orange orchard cv. Fukumoto. At harvest, fruit samples were selected with and without creasing, according to visual symptoms. External and internal fruit quality was evaluated in whole fruit, then dry matter and mineral content and concentration (nitrogen N, potassium K, calcium Ca and magnesium Mg) was analyzed in flavedo, albedo and pulp. Oranges with creasing had larger weight and fruit size, higher water content in the pulp and whole fruit, lower coarse rind grading, thinner peel, higher nitrogen content in the pulp and the whole fruit, higher potassium content in all fruit components and lower calcium content and concentration. Magnesium content, only in flavedo showed significant differences, being higher in fruit without creasing. Fruit size and Ca were key factors related to the expression of creasing disorder, as well as nutrient balance.