Assessment of Apple Fruit Quality Parameters in Major Growing Regions of Pakistan

Abstract

Apple (Malus domestica Borkh.), fruits of different agro-ecological zones of Pakistan (Baluchistan, Swat and Gilgit–Baltistan) were investigated for the regional agro-climatic impact on fruit quality. A cross-sectional sampling approach was used to collect mature apples ready for market and critical parameters such as fruit weight, firmness, color index, mass ratio of methanol content (MC), total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), pH, TSS/TA ratio, vitamin C and sensory acceptability were determined. The majority of parameters also showed significant regional discrepancies (p < 0.05). The physical parameters (fruit weight and firmness) and chemical characteristics (TSS content and vitamin C) were highest in Gilgit–Baltistan apples. These results were further confirmed by sensory evaluation, as the Gilgit–Baltistan apples scored highest for appearance, sweetness, texture, and overall acceptability. Significant correlations were observed between TSS and sweetness, as well as between hardness and overall acceptance, showing the interrelated character of physicochemical and sensory attributes. The findings indicate that the quality of apples in Pakistan is dependent to a greater extent on their environment, and mountainous areas yield apples of better quality. The results of the study can be used by producers, marketers, and policy makers in order to develop production strategies, improve regional branding, and increase the competitiveness of Pakistani apples both in domestic and international markets.