Correlation of sensory and physicochemical properties of selected apple cultivars

Sensory and physicochemical changes of three apple cultivars (‘Golden Delicious’, ‘Idared’ and ‘Gloster’) were monitored during 14 weeks of storage at 6 °C and 70% relative humidity in three following years. The aim was to investigate physicochemical parameters that were best correlated with sensory evaluation of apples during their storage. Sensory quality was assessed using a category point scale and the sensory profile was evaluated using a graphical unstructured scale. Physicochemical changes, such as weight, soluble solids, titratable acidity, and dry matter content, were monitored. All the examined parameters changed during the observed period, with the greatest changes occurring in weight, texture, and taste. There were also differences between the tested cultivars. Statistically significant correlations between sensory and physicochemical data were observed between texture characteristics and weight changes. In case of sweet taste, only a weak correlation between the intensity of sweet flavour and soluble solid content values was found. No statistically significant correlation between the intensity of sour taste and titratable acidity was observed.