Effects of Curing Methods on Leaf Quality of Wanyuan Sun-cured Tobacco

To improve the quality of sun-cured tobacco, Wanmao 3, a major sun-cured tobacco cultivar in Wanyuan, Sichuan, was experimented to investigate the effects of different curing methods on the moisture content, pigment degradation rate and leaf quality of tobacco. The results showed that curing method affected the contents of moisture and pigments in tobacco leaves significantly. Longer air-curing duration before sun-curing resulted in lower dehydration rate and pigment degradation rate in leaves, which facilitated to the completion of carotenoid degradation. Curing method also influenced the sensory quality of tobacco to certain extent, appropriately extending air-curing duration would improve the appearance and sensory quality of tobacco. By comprehensive analysis, it indicated that air-curing for 10 days before sun-curing would offer cured-tobacco more harmonious chemical composition and better quality.