Characterization of fruits of peach varieties in the ‘Zona da Mata’ region, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate physical and chemical characteristics of fruits of 14 peach cultivars with yellow flesh named Aurora 1, Aurora 2, Biuti, Capdeboscq, Campinas 1, Diamante, Douradão, Dourado 1, Lake City, Maciel, Rei da Conserva, Régis and Tropic Beauty. They were introduced in the experimental orchard of the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV), Viçosa-MG. The experiment was conducted during the 2011 season, in a completely randomized design with 14 treatments (cultivars), three replications and 10 fruits per plot. Fruit with more intense yellow skin coloration were found in cultivars Lake City and Régis and the cultivars Aurora 1, Aurora 2, Capdeboscq, Diamante, Douradão, Dourado 1, Maciel, Régis and Tropic Beauty had yellow flesh color more intense. The fruits of cultivars Capdeboscq, Maciel and Rei da Conserva had, in general, higher fruit weight and diameter. The fruits of cultivars Douradão and Dourado 1 had a better balance between acidity and soluble solids and higher content of vitamin C. Higher levels of carotenoids were found in cultivars Capdeboscq, Campinas 1, Régis and Rei da Conserva.