Postharvest Quality and Storage Stability of Garlic Cultivars From a Highland Semi-Arid Region

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of storage duration on the physical and chemical properties of garlic bulbs from the Ito and Amarante cultivars, stored in plastic containers under ambient conditions. Temporal analysis was performed using regression models, while differences between cultivars were explored through nonlinear fitting using the LOESS method. Color evaluation was conducted in the CIELAB space, complementing the characterization of physicochemical parameters, including soluble solids, total titratable acidity, pH, pungency, fresh mass loss, and wilting index. In addition, principal component analysis was employed to identify multivariate patterns and correlations among the evaluated variables. The results showed that the Amarante cultivar exhibited greater stability during storage, with a lower wilting index and a gradual increase in soluble solids content. In contrast, the Ito cultivar displayed greater variability, with nonlinear responses and higher susceptibility to wilting, indicating a reduction in quality and commercial value over time. Colorimetric analyses revealed stability in both skin and pulp color in both cultivars throughout storage. Multivariate analysis highlighted the significant influence of genotype on postharvest responses. It is concluded that the Amarante cultivar has greater storage potential and can be stored for up to 90 days, while the Ito cultivar maintains commercial quality for up to 60 days under ambient conditions. These findings contribute to improving postharvest management practices, promoting loss reduction, product valorization, and greater market competitiveness.