Characterization of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) through the Morphoanatomical and Lipid Profile of Seeds for the Valorisation of Italian Accessions

Pomegranate produces fruit with high nutritional value. Of particular interest is the woody part of seed, which influences consumer acceptability and rich in bioactive components. The aim this study was to morphoanatomically biochemically characterize tegmen local commercial pomegranates grown Italy. SEM a texturometer were used for morphoanatomical hardness analysis, respectively, gravimetric Soxhlet extraction, as well GS-MS instrument, chemical analysis. In addition classic morphometric parameters, we described, first time, bundles on pomegranate tegmen, identifying four forms (FAN, TREE, COMB RAMIFIED); cultivars showed higher variability compared cultivars. Lignin content no correlation seed strength. We developed new hierarchical model geometric parameters resistant volume lignified tissue can explain observed tests. Quantitative differences total lipids unsaponifiable fractions; particular, all oils unsaturated fatty acids. propose that form novel trait characterization evaluate seeds. acids other biocompounds seeds promote their valorization resource rather than waste product.