Glucosinolates in Kale Genotypes from the Blacksea Region of Turkey

Abstract

Cruciferous vegetables are important sources of phytochemicals such as phenolics, vitamins, minerals and glucosinolates that are known to possess potential health benefits. When consumed on a regular basis cruciferous vegetables are believed to reduce the risk of several forms of cancer. Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala L.) is an important crucifer grown widely around the Blacksea region of Turkey and consumed extensively by the locals. The current study was aimed to determine the glucosinolate profile and content of a collection of 101 kale genotypes at two different plant developmental stages (early and late development). We demonstrated that among the tested genotypes glucobrassicin was the most abundant glucosinolate, followed by glucoraphanin, sinigrin and glucoiberin at much lower levels. The amount of total aliphatics and indols were significantly higher when plants were fully matured compared to the early developmental stage. Potential genotypes with desired glucosinolate profiles were identified for future breeding purposes for the development of new improved cultivars delivering potential health benefits. © 2008 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.