Storage under combined ultraviolet (UV) and light-emitting diodes (LED) enhances carotenoid concentration in mature green tomatoes

• DOI: 10.1556/066.2021.00015
• Publication Date: 2021-10-11T10:11:14Z
• Authors: C. Cano-Molina; A. López-Fernández; N. Díaz-González; R. González-Barrio; N. Baenas; M.J. Periago; F.J. García-Alonso
• Keywords: QD01 Analytical chemistry / analitikai kémia; 0301 basic medicine; 2. Zero hunger; 03 medical and health sciences

Abstract Tomato is rich in different bioactive compounds, especially the carotenoid lycopene, which intake is associated with various health benefits. Post-harvest use of ultraviolet light (UV) and light-emitting diode (LED) has been shown to increase the concentration of tomato bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ultraviolet (A and C) and red-blue LED light on the concentration of carotenoids during a 7-days storage trial of mature green tomatoes. Exposure to combined UV and LED light nearly doubled the total carotenoid concentration and had no negative impact on sensory attributes.