Comparison Root Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) Cultivars for Inulin Production in Iran

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) as a typical Mediterranean plant had been disseminated through the world which has different commercial uses such as salad, forage, inulin production, coffee substitute. Inulin indigestibility by human enzymes and its fermentation in the colon causes health promoting properties to use it in functional foods. For the first time, Part chicory genotype along with five industrial chicory varieties (Orchies, Tilda, Hera, Melci and Schepenes) cultivated in a CRBD experimental design with 3 replications for compare their fresh root yield, inulin percent and inulin yield. The highest fresh root yield per area unit was obtained from Part (5.05 kg/m2), Orchies (4.45 kg/m2). The highest inulin percent was related to Schepens cultivar but the highest inulin yield was obtained from Part cultivar due to its high root yield. Inulin percent was different among genotypes by 30 percent while root yield was different among genotypes by 300 percent. So, root yield is more promising trait for root chicory breeding program.