Tag: Fruit aroma

According to the International Society for Horticultural Science, the quality of fresh fruit is determined by both chemical and physical characteristics, such as appearance, texture, and flavor. Being able to identify these qualities is a valuable skill for any home cook or healthy eater aiming for the best flavor and nutritional benefits. This guide will walk you through the sensory cues and key indicators that define truly fresh fruit.

According to chemists, esters are responsible for the aromas of many fruits, contributing to their pleasant scents and flavors. These volatile organic compounds are created naturally within fruits during the ripening process, a fascinating chemical transformation that converts alcohols and acids into the sweet, fragrant molecules we associate with ripe produce. This process explains why a banana has a different scent than a pineapple, even though both have esters.

Research has identified limonene as one of the many volatile compounds found in blueberries. While citrus fruits are a far more concentrated source, blueberries do naturally produce this terpene, contributing to their complex flavor and aroma. The presence of limonene in blueberries is a key aspect of their rich and diverse chemical makeup.