Gajewski M., Szymczak P., Gorczyca M., Madejska M.

Quality traits of three broccoli cultivars, Chevalier F1, Milady F1 (cultivars of Dutch origin) and Cezar F1 (cv. of Polish origin) were determined. Immediately after autumn harvest sensory quality of broccoli was evaluated using quantitative descriptive analysis. Fourteen attributes were chosen to evaluate odour, texture and taste/flavour of the samples. Overall quality impression was also scored and hedonic tests were performed. Antioxidant activity, total carotenoids and vitamin C concentrations as well as colour parameters in CIE L*a*b* system were also determined. These traits were determined separately for florets and stems. The three cultivars differed in quality traits concerning sensory attributes, colour, antioxidant activity, and carotenoids and vitamin C concentrations. The florets performed higher antioxidant activity than stems. Carotenoids concentration was much higher in florets than in stems, whereas vitamin C concentration was on a similar level in both florets and stems. Florets and stems of all broccoli cultivars differed much in lightness, greenness and yellowness.

Key words: Brassica oleracea italica, Broccoli, Varieties, Flowers, Stems, Antioxidants, Carotenoids, Ascorbic acid, Antioxidants, Colour, Flavour, Smell, Firmness; Texture, Quality, Organoleptic analysis