Color measurement
The color of fresh tomato and dried samples was evaluated by a
colorimeter (Konica Minolta CR300, Japan) using the CIE Lab
system. The measures were performed on crushed tomatoes. The
colorimeter was calibrated with a standard white plate Theoretically, a values of 1 forrmean no mechanical change
compared to fresh samples (good structure); values ofr< 1 describe a softening of the sample (less good structure) and values
ofr> 1 indicate hardening (less good structure) (Heredia et al.,
2007). However, it is better to have a ratio close to unity indicating
that the tomato after treatment is less firm, easy to rehydrate and
more appreciated by consumers.