Fertilization-driven changes in biochemical profile and storage stability of dried tomatoes

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of different fertilization strategies on the biochemical composition and storage stability of dried tomatoes. Tomatoes were grown under ten fertilization treatments and analyzed in two periods: immediately after drying (Period 1) and after six months of storage (Period 2). Total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant capacity, and organic acid composition (oxalic, citric, malic, succinic, and fumaric acids) were determined. Fertilization treatment, drying period, and their interaction significantly affected TPC and organic acid composition (p < 0.0001). Antioxidant capacity was significantly influenced by fertilization and drying period (p < 0.05). In Period 1, TPC values ranged from approximately 31.40 to 35.96 mg GAE g–1, while antioxidant capacity varied between 175.69 and 373.38 Trolox µmol TE g–1, depending on fertilization treatment. After six months of storage (Period 2), both TPC (32.14–40.86 mg GAE g–1) and antioxidant capacity (563.19–781.25 Trolox µmol TE g–1) generally increased. Heatmap analyses revealed distinct clustering patterns between periods, with a more coherent association among malic acid, succinic acid, and TPC observed in Period 2. These findings indicate that fertilization strategies strongly influence both the initial biochemical composition and the long-term stability of dried tomatoes.