Unravelling the physicochemical and antioxidant profiles of guava genotypes across developmental stages and seasonality

Abstract

Guava is a highly nutritious pantropical fruit valued for its rich medicinal and economic significance. Despite its economic and nutritional importance, limited studies exist on the influence of pulp colour and seasonal variations on the physicochemical and antioxidant profiles of guava fruits. Addressing this gap, the present study evaluated 31 guava genotypes with red/pink and white pulp color at 70, 96 and 110 days after anthesis across rainy and winter seasons to identify superior genotypes for breeding and commercial purposes. Key findings revealed that physicochemical parameters were peaked at the ripe stage, particularly in winter. Fruit shape ranged from rounded to broadly round and conical, while pulp and peel color transitioned with maturity. At ripe stage of winter season fruit traits like weight (237.08g), length (74.5 mm) and width (71.62 mm) increased progressively, with genotype GH-2016-1B exhibiting the highest values. Regarding antioxidant profiles, hybrid Pusa Aarushi showed the highest levels of ascorbic acid (155.36 mg/100g of FW), total phenolic content (292.50 mg GAE/100 g FW), total antioxidant activity (10.17 μM TE/g FW), total carotenoids (0.88 mg/g) and lycopene content (30.11 μg/g) at the ripe stage during the winter. Concurrently, hybrid Pusa Pratiksha excelled in phenolic (233.50 mg GAE/100 g FW) and protein content (48.28 mg/mL), while GH-2016-8F (7.84 %) recorded the highest total sugar levels, showcasing significant seasonal influences. Besides these results, correlation and principal component analysis also underscores the influence of seasonal factors with developmental stages on guava quality, offering valuable insights for breeding programs and harvesting time to maximize nutritional and functional benefits.