Effects of curing methods on contents of chemical components in Wanyuan sun-cured tobacco

To develop a curing method suitable for the sun-cured tobacco in Wanyuan, a new variety "Wanmao No.9" from Wanyuan was used to study the effects of curing methods on the quality and toxicant levels of sun-cured tobacco leaves. The results showed that curing methods significantly influenced the chemical components and sensory quality of tobacco leaves. In air-cured tobacco leaves, the contents of total sugar and reducing sugar were lower, the nicotine conversion rate and the contents of nornicotine, NNN and the total content of four TSNAs were higher, the offensive odor of leaves was less. In tobacco leaves treated by sun-curing with pair of bamboo grates, the total contents of four TSNAs significantly decreased, the health risk index of leaves was lower, and the aftertaste was comfortable. In tobacco leaves treated by sun-curing using strings, the contents of total aroma components and main aroma components significantly increased, the leaf quality was outstanding with better aroma quality and sensory quality.