Quality and Phytochemical Composition of Sweet Cherry Cultivars Can Be Influenced by Altitude

Sweet cherries (Prunus avium L.) are among the most important stone fruits in Lebanon. They are harvested between May and July; however, the introduction of new early varieties in low and medium altitudes (500-1000 m) and late varieties in higher altitudes (1800-2200 m) along with postharvest technologies can extend harvesting season. In this study, physicochemical characteristics along with total phenolic content, total anthocyanin content, and antioxidant activity of the most commercial cherry cultivars were evaluated at different altitudes to determine optimum harvesting time. Findings indicated that some varieties, such as Teliani and Irani, are more significantly impacted by altitude than the other varieties in terms of maturity indices. Duration of fruit development was prolonged with altitude, and in most instances, higher fresh weights and sizes were observed; however, fruit firmness decreased. While total phenolic content (expressed as gallic acid equivalent) did not significantly vary between varieties, the antioxidant activity (FRAP and DPPH assays) showed the lowest value in Banni and the total anthocyanin content showed the highest levels in Irani and Feraouni and the lowest in Mkahal and Banni. Furthermore, total phenolic content and reduction of ferric complex (FRAP) were interestingly influenced by geographical locations, in contrast to total anthocyanin content and radical scavenging activity (DPPH) which were unaffected.

Automated summary

Sweet cherries are important stone fruits in Lebanon and the harvesting season can be extended by introducing new varieties and postharvest technologies. Altitude significantly affects the maturity indices of certain cherry varieties. Higher altitudes result in longer fruit development duration and larger fruit size, but reduced fruit firmness. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity are influenced by geographical locations, while total anthocyanin content and radical scavenging activity are not affected.