Comparison of physicochemical traits of red-fleshed, commercial and ancient apple cultivars

Cultivation of apples is currently based on a limited number of commercial cultivars; as a consequence, ancient and local varieties have almost completely disappeared. Red-fleshed, ancient and commercial cultivars were analysed for flesh firmness, soluble solid content, pH, titratable acidity, total phenolics and anthocyanin contents, total antioxidant capacity, sugars and organic acids composition, to evaluate their nutraceutical value. The ancient cultivars, in particular cv. Magnana, were generally higher in organic acids, sugars content and total phenolics content in the flesh than the commercial cultivars considered. The red-fleshed cultivar was distinct from the ancient and commercial apples and resulted in an excellent source of antioxidants, with values of anthocyanins content and antioxidant capacity five times higher than the other cultivars; these values were comparable to those of berry species. In addition, the red-fleshed apple was rich in malic acid, citric acid, fructose and glucose. The breeding of red flesh apples is still in progress and should consider the use of ancient cultivars for their positive physicochemical characteristics to improve flavour and storage aptitude.