Nutritional Modifications and Biochemical Changes during Ripening of Wild Pear (Pyrus pashia)

Investigation on the biochemical changes of underlying mechanisms regulating fruit ripening process in Pyrus pashia , a wild edible fruiting species from Rudraprayag , Uttarakhand, was carried out. The fruits were collected in different maturity stages; unripe, semi-ripe, and fully ripe and analysed for their morphological and biochemical parameters, flavonoid and phenol contents using standard AOAC methods. It was found that the fruit skin color and specific gravity values can be used to differentiate the maturity stages. Ripe fruits were found to be nutritionally rich , but the unripe fruits had more of medicinal rich properties. This study shall help to provide information about correct harvesting and post-harvest storage period of the fruits required for optimizing their nutritional value, enhancing shelf life, and exploring their potential for value-added products. It will also promote commercial utilization of this underutilized fruit species, benefiting local communities and fostering sustainable livelihood opportunities.