Unraveling genetic, compositional, and organoleptic traits of elephant garlic of different geographical origins

Abstract

The ancient native variety of elephant garlic, known as “Aglione della Valdichiana” and cultivated in the Valdichiana area of Tuscany, Italy, has gained recent recognition in the National Catalog of Local Varieties. The renewed interest in traditional products has led to a focus on identifying local varieties of elephant garlic, driven by their distinctive organoleptic and nutritional characteristics. However, other types of elephant garlic nowadays available on the market appear similar, but challenges exist in discerning their origin and composition. This study focused on characterizing elephant garlic from Lazio, Italy, and the Val di Chiana region through genetic, chemical, and aromatic analyses to understand genetic and geographic influences. ISSR markers differentiated elephant garlic from common varieties and highlighted regional genetic diversity. Chemical analysis revealed higher polyphenol content and antioxidant activity in elephant garlic compared to common garlic. Moreover, analysis highlights the variability in the concentrations of sulfur-containing compounds between common and elephant garlic. Aromatic and sensory assessments underscored distinctions between garlic types and regions, emphasizing the significant impact of geographic origin and genetic background on metabolite profiles in Allium genotypes.