The nutritional content of cherries has been studied in order to find out which chemical elements contribute to improving their condition and quality. To find out which aspects make them such a sought-after fruit in terms of flavour and sweetness and how to move towards genetic improvement to enhance these qualities.
The nutritional properties of cherries can be altered by the characteristics of each variety, rootstock combination, climatic conditions and geographical origin. However, their nutritional content is widely associated with health benefits for people.
One of the main factors that determine the quality or commercial acceptance of cherries is the soluble solids. This characteristic basically determines the sweetness of the fruit, since it measures the amount of sugar it contains and is measured in Brix degrees. On average, cherries have about 18° Brix, with some varieties even exceeding 20° Brix, always determined by different factors.
Dry matter is what remains after all the water has been extracted from the fruit and comprises the total sum of all the minerals in the cherry, together with the sugars and vitamins that determine its post-harvest resistance to export transport. Thus, a high-quality cherry must contain at least 18% of dry matter in its composition.
As for the minerals that make up cherries, they have a good amount of Potassium, which is beneficial for health. They also contain other minerals in low concentrations such as Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Nitrogen and Boron.
“The concern that the fruits are in nutritional balance is of great importance today for our industry. When nutritional plans are established in the orchards, it is especially important to be able to establish what the minimum nutritional parameters that the fruit must contain are. In this regard, and by studying what the contribution of the soil and water is, technically a nutritional plan should be considered in accordance with the demand of the site, the variety, the rootstock and the productive potential. Of special concern is the content of Ca, K, % of DM and soluble solids.” said Carlos Tapia, director of Avium.
It is important to note that proper cultural management of orchards such as pruning, load regulation and irrigation management are very important in the final result, accompanied by a good nutritional management plan.
