Differentiation of juice of mandarin-like hybrids based on physicochemical characteristics, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacity

Abstract

In this study, samples of mandarin-like hybrids (Clemenvilla, Nadorcott and Ortanique) from two harvesting seasons (2017−2018 and 2018−2019) were analyzed, to evaluate its differences in physicochemical characteristics and nutritional properties and establish the parameters that allow classify these citrus cultivars. Results showed that Clemenvilla juice had the highest concentration of total phenolic and ascorbic acid and are strongly correlated to its higher antioxidant capacity. Flavonoids were higher in Nadorcott samples. Large differences of total carotenoids were observed in juice analyzed. Varieties and harvesting seasons significantly influenced (p < 0.05) the physicochemical properties, bioactive compounds content and antioxidant capacity of samples. The pH, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, DPPH and TEAC values were determined as predictor parameters to classify the groups according to the varieties, concluding that Nadorcott samples were clearly different. The data presented in this research will currently provide information about the physicochemical evaluation of mandarin-like hybrid varieties and their potential as source of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity.