Phytochemical analysis of organic and conventionally cultivated Meyer lemons (Citrus meyeri Tan.) during refrigerated storage

The levels of phytochemicals in organically and conventionally cultivated Meyer lemons (Citrus meyeri Tan.) are unknown. In this study, Meyer lemons grown in south Texas under similar climatic conditions, using organic and conventional cultivation practices, were evaluated for their levels of phytochemicals. Mature fruits were harvested in two seasons, stored at market-simulated post-harvest conditions for four weeks, and periodically evaluated for levels of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, amines, organic acids and minerals. Results indicate that organically grown lemons contain significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher levels of hesperidin, didymin and ascorbic acid than those cultivated in conventional system. Phenolic content was higher in organic lemons, whereas levels of citric acid and amines were higher in conventionally cultivated lemons. These results suggest that organically grown Meyer lemons are a good source of enhanced levels of flavonoids and ascorbic acid. Furthermore, storage of fruits at 10 °C up to four weeks helps maintain the levels of phytochemicals. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of phytochemicals evaluation of organic and conventionally grown Meyer lemons.