Volatile Compounds from the Mesocarp of Persimmons

Steam volatile fractions from astringent and nonastringent persimmons ( Diospyros kaki L.) and the native American persimmon ( D. virginiana L.) were analyzed by GC and GC/MS. Bomyl acetate and (E)‐2‐hexenal were major components from all cultivars. Minor constituents included (E)‐2‐hexenol, phenylacetaldehyde, phenylethyl acetate, borneol, benzothiazole, neryl acetate, palmitic acid and two saturated normal hydrocarbons (C 23 H 48 and C 25 H 5 2). From threshold values and concentrations, (E)‐2‐hexenal and bornyl acetate probably are major contributors of persimmon aroma.