Headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) determination of volatile compounds in roasted plantains (French sombre and Dwarf Kalapua)

Volatile compounds from roasted plantains (French sombre, AAB) and (Dwarf Kalapua, ABB) at different stages of ripening were evaluated by a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) with headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME). A total of 42 volatile compounds were identified in the roasted plantain cultivars. Some of the volatile compounds with high concentration were 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2-ethyl-3,5-dimethylpyrazine, (E)-2-hexenal, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine and 2,3-dihydro-5-hydroxyl-6-methyl-(4H)-pyran-4-on respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) based on the relationships between ripening/quality of volatiles showed that 2-methyl propanol, furfural, 2,5-dimethyl pyrazine, 2,3-butanedione, guaiacol, 2-ethyl-3-methyl pyrazine, 5-, ethyl acetate, 2-pentanol, 3-isobutyl-2-methoxy pyrazine and 7,8-dihydro-β-ionol were considered to contribute significantly to the overall aroma quality of fairly riped (stages 4 & 5) and roasted plantains.

► HS-SPME/GC-MS were used to evaluate volatiles from roasted plantains. ► The plantain cultivars were French sombre and Dwarf Kalapua. ► Effect of ripening stages on volatiles generated during ripening were studied. ► A total of 42 volatile compounds were identified. ► PCA revealed that 11 compounds were most significant.