Visible spectroscopy and near infrared (VIS/NIR), in assessing the quality of mangoes Tommy Atkins

Visible spectroscopy (Vis) and near infrared (NIR) are presented as promising and fast technologies in the evaluation of internal characteristics of several fruits. The difference in absorbance, from the fruits, when subjected to a spectrum emitted between two wavelength next to the absorption peak of chlorophyll-a, was used for the development of an index (DA-IDA), which correlates with the stage of maturation. This work aimed to evaluate the relationship between the index (DA-IDA), obtained by the equipment DA-meter®, and the physicochemical parameters of ripening used in mangoes from the cultivar Tommy Atkins, to separate the fruits in distinct categories. Fruits belonging to the same lot and purchased in a local distribution center, in Pelotas, RS, were used. The results obtained through the (DA-IDA) allowed dividing the fruits in categories, according to the ripening stage, showing the high heterogeneity of fruits available to consumers. The coefficients of determination (R²) obtained through the (DA-IDA) index and the quality parameters were significant for the attributes studied.

Mangifera indica; quality; non destructive techniques