Delayed Luminescence as an Indicator of Tomato Fruit Quality

Abstract

ABSTRACT To develop nondestructructive, objective, quality indicators for tomatoes we measured delayed luminescence, firmness, soluble solids, dry matter, color and respiration during ripening in cherry tomatoes ( Lycopersicon esculentum var. cerasiforme ). They were harvested at various maturity stages and ripened in the dark at 20°C and 80% relative humidity. Ten days after harvest we observed on fruit showing similar color, significant differences in the delayed luminescence, soluble solids and dry matter, directly related to harvest maturity. We suggest that delayed luminescence can be used as a nondestructive indicator of important indicators of tomato fruit quality.