Chemical compositional characterization of ten litchi cultivars

The sugar, organic acid, free amino acid and mineral compounds of ten commercial litchi cultivars (Sanyuehong, Feizixiao, Nuomici, Qinzhouhongli, Heiye, Heli, Dadingxiang, Lingshanxiangli, Guiwei and Jizuili) were identified and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), ion chromatography(IC), amino acid analyzer(AAA) and flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The results showed great quantitative differences in the composition of the litchi cultivars. Both fructose and sucrose were abundant in litchi fruits. Malic acid was detected as the main organic acid. γ-amino butyric acid and Alanine were the principal amino acids. Potassium is the most abundant mineral. The results provide important information on how to make the best use of the litchi cultivars investigated, for both technological research and processing practice.