The nutritional composition of key apricot varieties cultivated in Türkiye with a focus on health-related compounds

Abstract

Türkiye’s favorable geographical location and diverse climatic conditions provide it an ideal host for a wide range of fruit species. In this content, apricots have garnered significant global attention. In this study, local varieties such as Hasanbey, Hacıhaliloğlu, Kabaaşı, and Şalak were examined, alongside foreign varieties commonly cultivated in coastal regions, specifically Mikado and Mogador. It was found that domestic varieties are notably different from foreign varieties in terms of their health-related components. Fruits from various varieties sourced from significant apricot-producing provinces were investigated. The study revealed a range in total carotenoid content from 5.59 to 10.3 mg/kg, antioxidant activity spanning 478.5 to 1969 mgTE/kg, and total phenol content fluctuating between 122 and 771 mgTE/kg. The ‘Şalak’ distinguishes itself significantly from others due to its elevated phenolic content, leading to a correspondingly higher level of antioxidant activity. In conclusion, it has been observed that the antioxidant content in this variety is significantly higher (approximately 4 times higher). The study results unequivocally demonstrate that, beyond the significance of cultivation location, genotype plays a pivotal role as an essential determinant in relation to the evaluated quality features.