Assessment of watermelon maturity using portable new generation NIR spectrophotometers

• DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2022.111328
• Publication Date: 2022-07-09T05:45:34Z
• Authors: Miguel Vega-Caste...; María-Teresa Sánchez; Irina Torres; María-José de la ...; Dolores Pérez-Marín
• Keywords: Spectral sensors; 0404 agricultural biotechnology; In situ analysis; Watermelon classification; Prediction sugar content; 04 agricultural and veterinary sciences; 630; Optimum harvesting time

The non-destructive evaluation of internal maturity in watermelons, which are large fruits with a thick rind, during their development on the vine can be considered as challenge for growing sector. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to assess situ soluble solid content (SSC), main parameter establish full maturity, 249 intact which, 152 had striped light green rind and 97 dark rind. Two handheld new generation spectrophotometers were compared this purpose. Different pre-processing methods partial least squares (PLS) regression algorithm build global calibration models specific each one two types watermelon analysed. results obtained showed that NIRS is suitable technology screening fruit linear variable filters (LVF) sensor best equipment purpose (SECV = 1.02%; RPDp 1.36). Moreover, when different depending type watermelon. Additionally, near (NIR) classification developed discriminate samples by stage available, using discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). optimum threshold values watermelons (0.82 0.65, respectively) displaced from mean value due differences terms number per class used. A total 66.4% 82.2% respectively, correctly classified. study demonstrated viability decision-making support tool measure harvest time therefore meet consumers' demand sweet-tasting fruits. Further studies will needed improve robustness, further interpret outdoor applications