Use of TD-GC–TOF-MS to assess volatile composition during post-harvest storage in seven accessions of rocket salad (Eruca sativa). (1st March 2016) - Bell, Luke
Highlights: We present a robust method for VOC analysis from rocket salad packaging headspace. TD-GC–TOF-MS putatively identified 39 volatile compounds. VOC profiles for Eruca sativa varied significantly between accessions. Isothiocyanate compounds degrade significantly over shelf-life. Changes in VOC profiles could provide a useful tool for assessment of leaf quality. Abstract: An important step in breeding for nutritionally enhanced varieties is determining the effects of the post-harvest supply chain on phytochemicals and the changes in VOCs produced over time. TD-GC–TOF-MS was used and a technique for the extraction of VOCs from the headspace using portable tubes is described. Forty-two compounds were detected; 39 were identified by comparison to NIST libraries. Thirty-five compounds had not been previously reported in Eruca sativa. Seven accessions were assessed for changes in headspace VOCs over 7 days. Relative amounts of VOCs across 3 time points were significantly different – isothiocyanate-containing molecules being abundant on 'Day 0'. Each accession showed differences in proportions/types of volatiles produced on each day. PCA revealed a separation of VOC profiles according to the day of sampling. Changes in VOC profiles over time could provide a tool for assessment of shelf life.