Seasonal variation in color and texture of packaged wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia L.)

Wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia L.) is sold year round and different raw material qualities are packaged. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of growing season on quality of packaged wild rocket stored for 3 week at 5°C or for 1 week at 20°C to mimic the supply chain for unwashed, packaged wild rocket. Quality was determined by multispectral imaging at 570nm (color) and 780nm (texture). Data from multispectral analysis showed that green color was better preserved in the spring than in the late summer and that texture i.e. dry leaves that sprinkled upon touch, was better preserved in the later summer than in the spring. Wild rocket stored at low temperature remained greener for longer than at high temperature, and short storage time preserved the texture better than long storage time. Multispectral imaging is a useful tool for quality control of wild rocket to better manage stocks and meet the priorities of potential customers.