Articles
Elderberry inflorescences – setting the perfect timing for optimal flavor
Article number
1444_15
Pages
107 – 112
Language
English
Abstract
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) is a wild plant known for its fragrant inflorescences.
In Slovenia, they are traditionally harvested in spring to make typical beverages, such as elderberry syrup.
However, little is known about the optimal harvest time and the variation of plant metabolism along the day, in order to achieve optimal flavor and fragrance.
We described the variation in primary and secondary metabolism of inflorescences throughout the day, considering four different stages of their development: completely closed, half-open, fully open, and senescent.
Metabolite analysis included sugars, organic acids, and phenolic compounds.
The daily variation of volatile organic compounds was also described using HS-GC-MS, revealing that the typical odor is a complex mixture of alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and terpenoids.
The results suggest that the time of harvest and inflorescence stage is relevant, since volatile compounds, as well as other health-promoting compounds, vary during the day.
Also, environmental factors correlate with their contents, which should also be considered at harvest to achieve an optimal flavor of the product.
In Slovenia, they are traditionally harvested in spring to make typical beverages, such as elderberry syrup.
However, little is known about the optimal harvest time and the variation of plant metabolism along the day, in order to achieve optimal flavor and fragrance.
We described the variation in primary and secondary metabolism of inflorescences throughout the day, considering four different stages of their development: completely closed, half-open, fully open, and senescent.
Metabolite analysis included sugars, organic acids, and phenolic compounds.
The daily variation of volatile organic compounds was also described using HS-GC-MS, revealing that the typical odor is a complex mixture of alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and terpenoids.
The results suggest that the time of harvest and inflorescence stage is relevant, since volatile compounds, as well as other health-promoting compounds, vary during the day.
Also, environmental factors correlate with their contents, which should also be considered at harvest to achieve an optimal flavor of the product.
Authors
M.C. Grohar, J. Jakopič, M. Hudina, R. Veberič
Keywords
elderflower, primary metabolism, secondary metabolism, fragrance
Groups involved
- Division Vine and Berry Fruits
- Division Plant-Environment Interactions in Field Systems
- Division Horticulture for Human Health
- Working Group Vaccinium Species and Management
- Working Group Rubus and Ribes Species and Management
- Working Group Kiwifruit Culture and Management
- Working Group Strawberry Culture and Management
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