Physical-chemical and sensory quality evaluation of potato varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.)

Seven table potato varieties were studied for pH, soluble solids content, moisture, firmness, color, external appearance of raw tubers and flavor and texture of the fried and boiled product. Monalisa was the most appreciated variety regarding external appearance, Bartina was preferred for the flavor of the fried product while Victoria and Desiree were the best for flavor and texture of boiled potatoes. The different scores by variety depending on frying or boiling suggest a specific use for each variety. Soluble solids content, pH, and moisture determinations showed minimal differences between varieties. Firmness was highest in the two varieties with the least moisture (Desiree and Victoria) and lowest in varieties with a high degree of moisture (Bartina and Caesar), fresh potato firmness had a positive correlation with these sensorial parameters when the product was boiled. All colorimetric parameters were useful to discriminate red skin from yellow-white skin varieties.