Differentiation of Perfection, Alsweet and Alaska Varieties by Total Starch and Amylose Content

Abstract

The USDA grading system assigns different quality attributes according to two types of peas, wrinkled and smooth skinned. Since crosses between these types exist which exhibit characteristics of both types, a method of identification between types is needed to apply the correct grading standards. Perfection, Alsweet and Alaska varieties were evaluated for percent starch and amylose content in starch within sieve size classification or tenderometer value grouping. Perfection peas are easily differentiated from Alsweet and Alaska peas of similar sieve size or tenderometer values by their high amylose content. Alsweet has the lowest percent amylose in starch; however, there exists an overlap in content between Alaska and Alsweet varieties making differentiation uncertain. Results indicated that differentiation was possible between Alaska and Alsweet within sieve size or tenderometer values on the basis of total starch content. The Alaska variety has a higher total starch content compared to the Alsweet variety.