Analysis of volatile compounds was performed on 81 wheat varieties and landraces, grown under controlled
greenhouse conditions, in order to investigate the possibility of differentiating wheat varieties
according to their volatile compound profiles. Volatile compounds from wheat samples were extracted
by dynamic headspace extraction and analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Seventytwo
volatile compounds were identified in the wheat samples. Multivariate analysis of the data showed
a large diversity in volatile profiles between samples. Differences occurred between samples from Austria
compared to British, French and Danish varieties. Landraces were distinguishable from modern varieties
and they were characterised by higher averaged peak areas for esters, alcohols, and some furans. Modern
varieties were characterised by higher averaged peak areas for terpenes, pyrazines and straight-chained
aldehydes. Differences in volatile profiles are demonstrated between wheat samples for the first time,
based on variety. These results are significant to plant breeders and commercial users of wheat