Comparative Analysis of Physical and Biochemical Traits in Seeded and Seedless Kinnow Mandarins in Pakistan

Abstract

This study evaluated the physical and biochemical qualities of low-seeded and seeded ‘Kinnow’ mandarins cultivated in Pakistan’s Punjab region. Using a randomized complete block design, twenty trees of each variety were sampled, and five fruits from each tree were analyzed for parameters such as fruit weight, peel weight, seed count, peel thickness, juice content, TSS, titratable acidity, and vitamin C. Results indicated that seeded fruits had significantly higher weight (170 g vs. 155 g), peel weight (47.43 g vs. 34.50 g), rag weight (58.20 g vs. 41.14 g), peel thickness (4.09 mm vs. 2.70 mm), and seed count (27 vs. 4) compared to seedless fruits. Conversely, seedless fruits exhibited a higher TSS:TA ratio (15.08 vs. 9.36), reflecting better flavor, and had higher juice content (66.91% vs. 64.14%). Furthermore, vitamin C content was significantly greater in seeded fruits (73.5 mg/100 g). Overall, seed presence influenced key physical and biochemical traits, impacting fruit quality and consumer preferences.