Comparative analysis of phytochemical profiles and antioxidant potential of kiwifruit cultivars

This study explores the phytochemical composition and antioxidant potential of various kiwifruit cultivars (Actinidia spp.) cultivated in South Korea. The nine cultivars analyzed were ‘Octogreen,’ ‘Garmrok,’ ‘Haegeum,’ ‘Goldone’ (GO), ‘Garmhwang’ (GH), ‘Sweet Gold’ (SG), ‘Sunfl’ (SF), ‘Nokong’, and ‘Hayward’. The results revealed significant variation in total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) among the cultivars. TPC ranged from 6.43 to 11.23 mg tannic acid equivalent/g extract (TAE), while TFC ranged from 1.25 to 4.41 mg quercetin equivalent/g extract. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging assays. SG exhibited the highest scavenging activity, whereas certain other cultivars showed relatively lower antioxidant potential. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to quantify key bioactive compounds known for their health benefits. Neochlorogenic acid (1) was among the most abundant, with the highest concentrations observed in GO (0.90 mg/g) and SF (0.66 mg/g), while epicatechin (4) was particularly abundant in GH (0.74 mg/g). These findings highlight the importance of genetic diversity in kiwifruit and provide valuable insights for breeding programs focused on enhancing the nutritional and functional qualities of new cultivars. A deeper understanding of the chemical composition can support the development of kiwifruit cultivars targeted for specific health benefits, contributing to healthier dietary choices.