HARVEST TIME AS A MODULATOR OF PHYTOCHEMICALS IN SWEET POTATO CULTIVARS FOR THE INDUSTRY

ABSTRACT As a fresh food, sweet potatoes are highlighted for their taste and appearance. In the industry, they valued starch sugar content. both scenarios, much attention has been given to composition of bioactive compounds. The application abiotic stresses seems induce an overproduction these compounds in some vegetables. objective was examine influence harvest time on synthesis accumulation varieties minimally processed with different flesh colors. Sweet potato cultivars (Beterraba, Jerimum, Mãe de Família Roxa, BRS Cuia) were harvested at 120, 150, 180 days after planting, then subjected minimal processing stored 5 ºC 10 days. most recommended harvesting semi-arid conditions by industry is between 150 This period when exhibit best quality consumption, as detected ‘Mãe Roxa’ ‘Jerimum’. ‘BRS Cuia’ 120 showed highest phenolic compound levels, polyphenol oxidase peroxidase enzyme activities, intense browning symptoms. addition its content, it can be used raw material extraction interest. ‘Beterraba’ low values, rendering them unfavorable consumption or processing. However, this cultivar also exhibited high content carotenoids, making bio-factories food pharmaceutical industries.