Sensory evaluation of sweet cherries for sustainable fruit production in the European market

Abstract

The competitiveness of fresh fruit in the modern market substantially depends on sensory quality indicators. Sweet cherries are a top fruit that is highly valued by consumers due to their taste and visual attractiveness. For the growing demand for fruits on the European market, it is important to examine the sensory properties of cherry fruits in combination with their weight and diameter. The purpose of the study was to substantiate sensory indicators for examining the quality of cherry fruits of different maturation periods and selecting the most competitive varieties for the sustainable provision of fresh fruit in accordance with the requirements of the modern market. In the course of the study, the following methods were used: field, laboratory, and comparative. Determination of the mass, diameter, and sensory assessment of fruits was conducted on 33 varieties of sweet cherries. Experts conducted rating tests on a 9-point scale on ten fruit samples of the examined varieties. Fruits were evaluated by their appearance, aroma, taste, and texture. At the final stage of the assessment, experts calculated the average value of sensory indicators. A sensory profile was set for the fruits of each cherry variety and assigned a score based on the following descriptors: colour intensity, taste, pulp hardness and juiciness, and skin density. The standard methodology for evaluating the sensory properties of fresh fruits has been improved. The average weight (8.41 g) and diameter (22.63 mm) of sweet cherry fruits for three ripening groups were determined. Varieties (Kazka, Dilema, and Udivitiel’na) with the largest mass and diameter of fruits are identified. According to the complex of sensory indicators, the varieties Kazka, Vynka, and Krupnoplidna were distinguished. According to the external attractiveness, consistency, and taste qualities of fruits, a sensory profile has been formed for varieties of different maturation periods. Sensory evaluation of sweet cherry fruits will allow distributing fruit products and selecting raw materials for further use in fresh form, long-term storage, freezing and production of processed products by thermal sterilisation