Characterization and postharvest behavior of goji berry (Lycium barbarum L.) during ripening

This study aimed to characterize goji berry ( Lycium barbarum L . ) fruit across different stages of maturity and ripening in terms of color, firmness, phytochemicals, and metabolic behavior. According to the producer's indication, the goji berry fruit was divided into six classes: early immature (green) to fully ripe (full red). Several maturity indexes were monitored for all classes, including dimension, weight, color (hue angle), firmness, soluble solid content (SSC), pH, and titratable acidity (TA). Fruit dimensions on the plant increased from class 1–6 starting from 8.08 mm in length, 3.95 mm in width, and 0.07 g of weight, to 16.26 mm, 13.15 mm, and 1.29 g, respectively. Soluble solids increased from 2.68% to 23.5%; the highest value observed even after storage. Goji berries showed a rise in respiration rate and ethylene production in the early stages of development. Goji berry stored for 8 d at 25 °C showed significant changes in color, soluble solids, TA, respiration, and ethylene production. Soluble solids from class 5 stabilized around the maximum value of 23% after eight days of storage at room temperature. Their high nutritional value was confirmed by the content of vitamin C, which is comparable to that of citrus fruit. It reached the maximum value of 0.52 g/kg at full ripening, whereas the phenolic content decreased during ripening to values of 2.15 g/kg. The latest contributed considerably to the high antioxidant content of the berries. Results obtained in this study contribute to better understand the postharvest behavior of goji fruits enabling a clearer definition of quality attributes during ripening and, in turn, improving postharvest handling and distribution of goji berries as fresh fruit. • Goji berries are classified into six developmental stages. • Goji berry fruit showed climacteric behavior in the early stages of development. • Vitamin C content increased over ripening, while phenolic content decreased. • We recommend harvesting at stage 5 and not earlier than stage 4. • This information is crucial for postharvest handling and consumption of goji fruit.