Volatile compounds and capsaicinoid content of fresh hot peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) of different Calabrian varieties

BACKGROUND: Because of the great variability in size, shape, colour, pungency and aroma of Calabrian Capsicum annuum(hot pepper), this study was carried out to furnish producers with information on volatile compounds and capsaicinoid content useful for the genetic improvement of this species. Fully ripened fresh peppers of the most widely cultivated varieties were studied. Capsaicinoid content was determined by reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography/diode array detection (RP-HPLC/DAD). Volatile compounds were determined by headspace solid phase microextraction/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC/MS). RESULTS: Sixty-four volatile compounds were identified, the main classes being alcohols, aldehydes, terpenes and aliphatic branched-chain hydrocarbons. The 'Naso di cane'(C. annuumvar. abbreviatum) variety contained the lowest amount of volatiles, especially alcohols and aldehydes, while the highest levels of capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin were found in' Vulcan' and 'Corno di capra' varieties. CONCLUSION: From statistical evaluation of the data obtained, each variety showed a typical composition of capsaicinoids and volatiles determining the taste and odour of the hot peppers. These results should be useful in the context of research aimed at selecting varieties with the best sensory characteristics. (C) 2009 Society of Chemical Industry