Nontargeted 1H NMR fingerprinting and multivariate statistical analysis for traceability of Greek PDO Vostizza currants

In this study, non-targeted H-1 NMR fingerprinting was used in combination with multivariate statistical analyses for the classification of Greek currants based on their geographical origins (Aeghion, Nemea, Kalamata, Zante, and Amaliada). As classification techniques, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) were carried out. To elucidate different components according to PDO (Protected Designation of Origin), products from Aeghion (Vostizza) were statistically compared with each one of the four other regions. PLS-DA plots ensure that currants from Kalamata, Nemea, Zante, and Amaliada are well classified with respect to the PDO currants, according to differences observed in metabolites. Results suggest that composition differences in carbohydrates, amino, and organic acids of currants are sufficient to discriminate them in correlation to their geographical origin. In conclusion, currants metabolites which mostly contribute to classification performance of such discriminant analysis model present a suitable alternative technique for currants traceability. The study results contribute information to the currants' metabolite fingerprinting by NMR spectroscopy and their geographical origin. Practical Application This study presents an analytical approach for a high nutritional value Greek PDO product, Vostizza currant. A further research and implementation of this method in food industry, can be the key to food fraud incidents. Thus, application of this work opens up posibilities to farm to table mission.

Automated summary

Non-targeted H-1 NMR fingerprinting combined with multivariate statistical analyses were used to classify Greek currants based on their geographical origins effectively. Differences in metabolites allowed for clear classification of currants from different regions. Composition variances in carbohydrates, amino acids, and organic acids were found to be sufficient for geographical discrimination of currants.