Color and antioxidant activity in light colored traditional autochthonous apple varieties

As a part of the Gene Bank of the Republic of Srpska, within the Institute of Genetic Resources, University of Banja Luka, field collections of autochhthonous fruit and grape varieties serve as a valuable resource for diverse scientific research, experimental studies, measurements, and long-term monitoring. In ripening season of 2024, we counducted research on traditional autochthonous apple varieties. From field collections, we selected 3 apple accsessions with good yield potential, for sampling. The apple varieties included in this study were Bjeličnik, Vidovka žuta and Kanada Švabica.  After color analyses was done, we concucted analyses of antioxidant potential in samples. Methods used for color were the LAB digital color positioning system and for antioxidant potential, it was determined using the DPPH free radical sequencing method. Results showed that EC50 value of 18.60 mg/mL places 'Vidovka žuta' at the top of the studied varieties for antioxidant potential. 'Bjeličnik' is interesting variety in the pomology of Republika Srpska, named for its characteristic pale, almost white skin (EC50 =24.19 mg/mL). Kanada švabica showed EC50 of 31.87 mg/mL, and suggests a lower relative antioxidant potency compared to 'Vidovka žuta' and 'Bjeličnik'. Color showed that Bjeličnik is also significantly lighter than the others, confirming its phenotype as the "white" apple of the collection. Yellowness (b*) indicated that Vidovka žuta and Kanada švabica are statistically similar in their yellow intensity, while Bjeličnik is significantly less yellow. Traditional apples are a rich source of dietary antioxidants. The high uniformity in 'Bjeličnik' and the superior potency of 'Vidovka žuta' justify their use in breeding programs targeting increased functional value in modern apple cultivars.