QUALITY OF ORGANIC MANDARIN JUICE, CV. CLEMENPONS

Everyday consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with a lowered risk of cancer, hypertension and heart diseases due to the various forms of antioxidants present in these foods such as carotenoids. Besides, consumers demand organic products because they are believed to be more flavourful, healthier, and more respectful to the environment. The effects of organic farming on CIEL*a*b* colour, minerals contents, carotenoids composition and sensory quality of Clemenpons mandarin juices were studied. Organic farming of mandarins resulted in juices with higher mineral and carotenoid contents and of better sensory quality. For instance, organic juice contained a total concentration of carotenoids of 17.3 mg l –1 compared to 13.5 mg l –1 of conventional juice. Finally and in general, mandarin juices are good source of some important elements, such as potassium and antioxidants, e.g. β-cryptoxanthin.