In‐depth analysis of Ciflorette strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa ‘Ciflorette’) by multidimensional gas chromatography and gas chromatography‐olfactometry

Grown predominantly in France, Ciflorette strawberries ( Fragaria × ananassa ‘Ciflorette’) possess a well‐balanced fruity aroma and a sweet, creamy taste. The goal of this study was to better understand the chemical composition and key odourants of this unique fruit. Incorporating fractionation and multidimensional gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (MDGC‐MS), the volatile constituents of Ciflorette strawberries are discussed for the first time from the large‐scale extraction of 100 kg of the pureed berries. A total of 24 volatile sulphur compounds were either absolutely confirmed by synthesis or tentatively identified from the different analyses. Three sulphur compounds were synthesized and described in nature for the first time: 1‐(methylthio)‐2,3‐butanedione, 3‐(acetylthio)‐hexanal and 2,6‐dipropyl‐3‐formyl‐5,6‐dihydro‐2H‐thiopyran. Finally, GC‐olfactometry (O) conducted by seven panelists led to the identification of 43 aroma‐active compounds in the strawberry extract.