NIRS Database on fresh grated cassava for softness at NaCRRI, Uganda

Cassava root softness is one of the important consumer acceptability traits for boiled root cassava product. Thus determination of fresh root softness using relevant phenotyping tools makes it possible to select cassava varieties with preferred farmer attributes. The fresh grated cassava for softness database was created out of the RTB clones established at NaCRRI. The samples constituting this database were harvested in 2019 where 58 genotypes were considered. The database is powered by the standard operating procedure on acquiring spectra from fresh grated roots using the FOSS DS2500 equipment. Given logistical and technical constraints, the database consists of 36 of the 58 genotypes RTB panel genotypes. Spectra from these genotypes were obtained from fresh grated immediately after harvest. At the same time, reference information related to the softness of the root was generated using a penetrometer and texture analyzer. Calibration on the same showed weaker association of the trait (r<0.4) with spectra acquired. This shows that relevant adjustments in methodologies to acquire spectra and number of clones used are needed to fully determine the potential of NIRS to determine root softness in cassava.