Citrus Sinensis cultivars: alternatives for diversification of brazilian orchards

Abstract This work aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of different orange cultivars (Citrus sinensis) in order to identify those with potential to the consumer market and/or for processing. Five orange cultivars were evaluated: ‘Natal IAC’, ‘Natal 112’, ‘Pera IAC 2000’, ‘Pera IAC’, ‘Baianinha’ and ‘Pera Rio’, which were harvested at maturation stage considered ideal for commercialization in the “Agência Goiana de Assistência Técnica, Extensão Rural e Pesquisa Agropecuária – EMATER” experimental orchard at the municipality of Anápolis, state of Goiás. After harvesting, fruits were transported to the laboratory, selected, standardized, washed and allowed to dry. Subsequently, skin color, longitudinal and cross-sectional diameter, number of seeds, fruit and juice, yield, levels of soluble solids, ascorbic acid and total extractable polyphenols, pH and total antioxidant capacity analyses were conducted. Among cultivars studied, ‘Baianinha’ and ‘Pera IAC’ can be alternatives to citrus growers, with potential to be accepted among consumers and processing industries.