Partial Least Squares Analysis of the Relationship Between Chemical Composition and Phenolic Compounds in Blueberry Cultivars

Abstract

Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.), one of the most widely consumed fruits worldwide, are rich in nutrients and exhibit antioxidant activity. In this study, the partial least squares and principal component analyses were used and the chemical composition and mineral and phenolic compound contents of blueberry cultivars suited to northern China were determined. Blueberries growing in northern China contain a rich variety of biologically active compounds at high concentrations and have high nutritive mineral values. In general, the chemical composition data of the blueberry cultivars examined were similar to those obtained by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). However, the mineral content data showed iron and potassium concentrations that were slightly higher than those found by the USDA. In addition, the iron concentrations were lower than those found in the literature for Brazilian cultivars. The zinc, magnesium, and vitamin C in blueberries may promote the growth and accumulation of total phenols and anthocyanins, while total acid, iron, and potassium have opposite effects. Total phenols correlated positively with anthocyanins. Differences in protein, total carbohydrate, potassium, and sodium between cultivars could affect total phenol and anthocyanin contents. Adjusting the total acid concentration and reducing the sugar and mineral contents may affect anthocyanin content in blueberries. These changes may improve the nutritional value and fruit quality of blueberries.