Multi-indicator comprehensive evaluation of fruit quality in different Lonicera caerulea cultivars

In this study, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on eight Lonicera caerulea cultivars from Heilongjiang Province, encompassing their appearance, edibility, nutritional and biochemical quality, and sensory quality. A quality evaluation model was subsequently established.

With respect to its visual characteristics, the fruit morphology of Lonicera caerulea is characterized by an elongated or oval shape. By measuring the L* value (fruit lightness) and a* value (red-green bias of color-presenting substances in the fruit), it is indicated that the fruit exhibits an overall reddish tendency. In terms of edible quality, 'Lanjingling 2' exhibited the highest sugar content, while 'Wulan 1' showed the most favorable sugar-acid ratio. Electronic nose analysis showed similar aroma profiles for 'Benshanqie', 'Lanjingling 2', and 'Wulan 2', while 'Beilei' had a distinct flavor. Results from the electronic tongue indicated that 'Beilei' was notably acidic, whereas 'Lanjingling 1' and 'Benshanqie' had high umami and richness scores. A comparison of the nutritional and biochemical qualities of L. caerulea revealed significant disparities in their K and Fe contents. 'Benshanqie' showed the highest levels of total flavonoids and tannins. All cultivars demonstrated considerable ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activity, accompanied by high vitamin C content. In the sensory evaluation, 'Lanjingling 2' received the highest score. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis were employed to identify key quality indicators, while analytic hierarchy process was used to rank the overall performance of each cultivars. Notably, The systematic cluster analysis yielded six categories. The highest quality was offered by 'Lanjingling 2'.

This study signifies the inaugural implementation of integrated statistical methodologies for analysis of the quality characteristics of Russian L. caerulea introduced to China. The study provides novel insights into the formation of fruit quality and regional adaptation differences, offering an innovative approach to comprehensive fruit quality evaluation. Moreover, it provides a scientific foundation for the assessment of cultivars, the processes of breeding, and industrial utilization. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.