Metabolomic insights into tubers and tuber-based foods: post-harvest storage and thermal processing: a review

Abstract The application of metabolomics enables detailed characterisation of tuber biochemistry and shifts that occur in response to genetic, environmental, and processing-related influences. Tubers are metabolically active substances, comprising both fundamental and specialised compounds, which contribute significantly to their dietary importance and flavour characteristics. This review explores the diverse metabolites present in different tubers (potato, sweet potato, yam, and cassava), including primary and secondary metabolites, volatile compounds, and phenolic constituents. The study further investigates the effects of distinct heat-based processing methods on metabolic profiles and their stability. Additionally, post-harvest metabolic shifts and disease-induced alterations in tuber metabolites are discussed, highlighting their implications for quality, storage stability, and nutritional value. This review also discusses how techniques like “GC–MS,” “LC–MS,” and “NMR” support the identification of metabolites and the study of biochemical transformations, and integrates a metabolomic perspective to deepen the understanding of biochemical processes in tuber development and function. Insights into metabolic changes can inform optimisation of processing methods, improve tuber quality, and guide the development of metabolomics-based strategies for enhanced storage and disease resistance.