Effect of Genotype and Geographical Origin on Potato Properties (Physical and Sensory) for Authenticity Purposes

Abstract

This study was undertaken to determine the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of two potato cultivars (Spunta and Agria), cultivated in three geographical regions of Greece (Macedonia, Thessaly, Peloponnese). Multivariate analysis was applied to reveal relationships among various parameters and the effect of genotype and cultivated region. PCA showed specific sensory profile for the fresh tubers strongly depending on the potato cultivar. Similarly, implementation of PCA to the boiled potato tubers revealed concrete sensory profile for the geographical origin. The (CA) effectively grouped the physicochemical attributes, minerals and the sensory attributes related to taste, colour and odour. Application of (DA) both for cultivars and geographical regions disclosed that the most important parameters describing the overall acceptability were sweet taste, special taste and aftertaste persistence. In conclusion, the obtained information regarding the effect and interaction of cultivar and geographical region on potatoes quality could be potentially exploited for authenticity purposes.