EFFECT OF SPROUT INHIBITION ON THE LIPID COMPOSITION OF POTATOES

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Abstract
Maleic hydrazide (MH), a sprout inhibitor, was applied to potato plants in each of 2 yr. Tubers from these plants were examined for susceptibility to enzymatic discoloration and lipid content. Enzymatic darkening was greater, and both the crude lipid and phospholipid content lower, in tubers from plants treated with MH as compared with the controls. The fatty acid composition of the phospholipid fraction of MH‐treated tubers exhibited a significant increase in saturated fatty acids and a decrease in unsaturated fatty acids. The exact mechanism of action of MH is unknown, but its effect on the lipid composition of tubers may be an important factor contributing to sprout inhibition. Since the lipid of the tuber is an important determinant of cellular integrity, the altered lipid composition resulting from treatment with MH may be an important factor contributing to the tuber's increased susceptibility to bruising and discoloration.