Use of fruits of newly selected Armenian varieties of apricot in functional food

Background: This study identifies and characterizes local apricot varieties from Armenia's gene pool, exhibiting delayed ripening and exceptional qualitative traits, adaptable to the country's diverse elevations (800-2000m above sea level). Our research selected nine early ripening varieties optimized for Armenia's vertical zonation, mitigating spring frost risks. These varieties will establish new, ecologically sustainable orchards, extending the harvest period from 50-55 days to 100-110 days. The high-quality fruits produced will provide a stable, long-term supply for processing industries, enhancing product quality and nutritional value. Notably, these apricots offer essential health benefits as functional food, rich in vital nutrients. Objective։ Responding to climate change and global warming impacts in Armenia, this study identified nine high-potential apricot varieties from the local gene pool, distinguished by their diverse ripening times, superior quality traits, and adaptability. These varieties are suited for establishing resilient apricot orchards across Armenia's vertical zonation, expanding cultivation into the high agricultural zone (800-2000 meters above sea level). This strategic approach will enhance annual harvest stability, ensure consistent fruit supply for processing industries, and optimize the utilization of essential nutrients and health benefits as a functional food. Material and methods: For this study, 9 apricot cultivars (Yerevani Vaghahas, Vaghahas Vardaguyn, Nushi Vaghahas, Sateni Deghin, Dima, Khosroveni Karmir, Oshakani, Karmreni, and Aragatsi) were selected from the Armenian gene pool based on their unique ripening times, disease resistance, and desirable fruit characteristics. Yerevani Vaghahas served as the control variety due to its high yield, attractive fruit habitus, and prevalence (80%) in Armenian apricot plantations. A comparative study was conducted across different elevations (800-2000 meters above sea level) to evaluate cultivar performance. Results: Comprehensive studies have identified optimal apricot varieties for vertical zonation, enabling the establishment of resilient orchards. This strategic approach ensures extended harvest periods (50-55 to 100-110 days), ecologically clean production, and high-quality fruits with enhanced nutritional value. This innovative approach ensures a stable, long-term supply of premium apricots, supporting regional food security, economic growth, and human well-being. Conclusion: Building on decades of research in the Republic (1931-2023) and insights from global warming data, we conclude that cultivating carefully selected apricot varieties in high-altitude zones (1400-2000m) offers a strategic solution. This targeted approach optimizes physiological adaptability, economic viability, and production efficiency. While minimizing climate-related risks, this method also yields high-quality fruits rich in eco-friendly raw materials, ideal for functional food products, pharmaceutical applications, cosmetic development, and other fields. Keywords: Armenian apricot, zonality, variety, dried fruit, biochemical characteristics, vitamin