HYBRIDS OF EUROPEAN AND NASHI PEARS: A NEW FRUIT FOR EUROPE?

In the attempt to combine the positive characteristics of European pears (P. communis) and Asian pears (P. pyrifolia), crossings were made in 1993 and 1994 to create a new pear type for the fresh fruit market in Europe.
Approximately 10 hybrids of the crossing P. communis ‘Harrow Sweet’ × P. pyrifolia ‘Nijisseiki’ show promising characteristics worth further investigation.
Five of these interspecific hybrids are described in respect to external and internal fruit quality parameters.
In addition, a sensory evaluation was carried out between the fruit of European pears, Nashis and the interspecific hybrids.
This first study shows a higher consumer acceptance of the hybrids in terms of aroma, acidity and general popularity in comparison to the two other species.
These first results indicate a potential for market diversification.
The requirements for producing, trading and marketing of the new fruit will be discussed.

IV International Conference on Managing Quality in Chains – The Integrated View on Fruits and Vegetables Quality

E. Kaim, H. Jacob, E. Krüger

fruit quality, Pyrus communis, Pyrus pyrifolia, interspecific hybrids, sensory evaluation, consumer acceptance

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2006.712.52