Abstract
The aim of the present work was to determine the main quality parameters on tuber potato using a portable near-infrared spectroscopy device (MicroNIR). Potato tubers protected by the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI “Patata de Galicia”, Spain) were analyzed both using chemical methods of reference and also using the NIR methodology for the determination of important parameters for tuber commercialization, such as dry matter and reducing sugars. MicroNIR technology allows for the attainment/estimation of dry matter and reducing sugars in the warehouses by directly measuring the tubers without a chemical treatment and destruction of samples. The principal component analysis and modified partial least squares regression method were used to develop the NIR calibration model. The best determination coefficients obtained for dry matter and reducing sugars were of 0.72 and 0.55, respectively, and with acceptable standard errors of cross-validation. Near-infrared spectroscopy was established as an effective tool to obtain prediction equations of these potato quality parameters. At the same time, the efficiency of portable devices for taking instantaneous measurements of crucial quality parameters is useful for potato processors.
Highlights
The potato is a traditional crop and the base of human diet in many world regions
In Galicia, this traditional agricultural activity is an important source of economic income for families [4], in order for the production to be covered by the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)
The descriptive analyses of the dry matter and reducing sugars, which are quantified in the tubers are summarized in Table 1, according to the potato cultivar
Summary
In the past two decades, potato production has experienced a greater growth compared with other tubers, due to its high yield and human nutritional value [1,2]. This increase is favored by the need to meet the increased demand for food due to the world population growth [2]. The potato tubers are stored for several months after their harvest, in order to meet the market demands throughout the year This increases their marketability and generates an additional benefit for growers, processors, and consumers [6,7].
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