Method for evaluating quality difference of different sections of cigar core tobacco leaves and application

Abstract

The invention discloses a method for evaluating the quality difference of different sections of cigar core tobacco leaves and application. The method comprises the following steps that cigar core tobacco leaves are cut into three sections in the direction perpendicular to a main vein, the three sections are respectively a leaf tip section, a leaf middle section and a leaf base section, and the length ratio of the leaf tip section to the leaf middle section to the leaf base section is (0.8-1.2): (0.8-1.2): (0.8-1.2); respectively carrying out appearance quality identification, physical property determination, chemical component detection and sensory quality evaluation on the leaf tip section, the leaf middle section and the leaf base section; and performing difference comparison analysis according to the evaluation results of the appearance quality, the physical characteristics, the chemical components and the sensory quality of the tobacco leaves in different sections to confirm the applicable positions of the different sections. According to the method, the quality difference of the eggplant core tobacco leaves in different sections can be effectively evaluated, and a theoretical basis is provided for more pertinently adjusting the placing positions and leaf bundle orientations of the eggplant core tobacco leaves.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of tobacco detection, and in particular to a method and application for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves. Background Art

[0002] Current cigar tobacco leaves present numerous challenges, including mottled color with blue spots, insufficient oil content, thick texture, coarse veins, a high stem content, a lack of characteristic aroma, prominent off-flavors, and a strong bitterness. This results in low overall quality and limited industrial applicability. The current shortage of high-quality cigar raw materials is a serious constraint on the high-quality development of the cigar industry. Therefore, finding a more efficient and rational way to utilize cigar raw materials has become a pressing challenge. A cigar is made up of three parts: a wrapper, a binder, and a filler. The filler accounts for 75%-85% of its weight, imparting its unique aroma, flavor, and strength, and plays a decisive role in its inherent smoking quality. Environmental conditions such as temperature, light, and precipitation significantly influence tobacco leaf growth and development. Factors such as the angle between the stem and the leaf can lead to differences in light radiation and effective accumulated temperature across different sections of the same filler leaf, further contributing to varying degrees of metabolism, transformation, and accumulation of its constituents. Ultimately, this results in significant variations in quality indicators across different sections of the leaf. Previous research on tobacco leaf quality in different sections has primarily focused on flue-cured tobacco. Some studies have shown that leaf thickness decreases, color becomes lighter, leaf weight decreases, and the texture becomes looser from tip to base. Some studies, using Hongda (a flue-cured tobacco variety) as experimental material, divided tobacco leaves into three sections at a ratio of 1:2:1 and found that the base of the leaf contained a relatively high amount of aroma components, while the mid-leaf section had the best sensory smoking quality. To date, no research has reported on the quality differences of cigars based on different sections. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Based on this, it is necessary to provide a method and application for determining the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves.

[0004] A first aspect of the present application provides a method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves, comprising the following steps:

[0005] The cigar filler tobacco leaf is cut into three sections along two positions perpendicular to the main vein, namely, the tip section, the middle section, and the base section, wherein the length ratio of the tip section, the middle section, and the base section is (0.8-1.2):(0.8-1.2):(0.8-1.2);

[0006] The leaf tip section, leaf mid-section and leaf base section are respectively subjected to appearance quality identification, physical property measurement, chemical composition detection and sensory quality evaluation;

[0007] Based on the results of appearance quality, physical properties, chemical composition and sensory quality evaluation of tobacco leaves in different sections, a comparative analysis of the differences is conducted to confirm the applicable positions of different sections.

[0008] In some embodiments, the cigar filler tobacco comes from at least one of a middle leaf of a tobacco plant and an upper leaf of a tobacco plant.

[0009] In some embodiments, the variety of the cigar filler tobacco includes Haiyan 200.

[0010] In some embodiments, the indicators for appearance quality identification include one or more of color, maturity, identity, leaf structure, and oil content, wherein the weight of each indicator is 15%, 35%, 20%, 10%, and 20%, respectively;

[0011] Optionally, the score range of each indicator is: a) Color: dark brown 8-10, reddish brown 7-9, khaki 6-8, orange 4-6, blue-gray 2-4; b) Maturity: fully ripe 8-10, mature 7-9, fairly ripe 6-8, underripe 4-6; c) Identity: moderate 8-10, slightly thin / slightly thick 7-9, thin 6-8, thick 4-6, too thick / too thin 2-4; d) Leaf structure: loose 8-10, fairly loose 7-9, slightly dense 6-8, dense 4-6; e) Oil content: high 8-10, some 7-9, slightly some 6-8, low 4-6.

[0012] In some embodiments, the physical property measurement index includes one or more of equilibrium moisture content, stem content, thickness and leaf quality.

[0013] In some embodiments, the determination of the equilibrium moisture content comprises:

[0014] Cut the tip, middle and base sections of the cigar filler tobacco leaves into small pieces with a width of less than or equal to 5 mm, balance and mix them, and then weigh them;

[0015] The small pieces are dried and weighed to calculate the equilibrium moisture content.

[0016] In some embodiments, one or more of the following conditions are met:

[0017] The equilibrium conditions include: temperature of 21°C to 23°C and relative humidity of 57% to 63%;

[0018] The balancing time is 6 to 8 days;

[0019] The drying temperature is 98°C to 102°C;

[0020] The drying time is 1.5h~2.5h.

[0021] In some embodiments, the determination of stem content, thickness and leaf mass uses cigar filler tobacco leaves with an equilibrium moisture content of 14% to 18%.

[0022] In some embodiments, the indicators of chemical component detection include one or more of total sugar content, reducing sugar content, total alkaloid content, total nitrogen content, potassium content and chlorine content.

[0023] In some embodiments, the sensory quality evaluation index includes one or more of aroma, richness, maturity, pungency, softness, fineness, sweetness, cleanliness, aftertaste, burningness, grayness and ashness.

[0024] A second aspect of the present application provides a cigar product, comprising a wrapper, a binder, and a filler, wherein the filler comprises at least one of a tip segment and a mid-leaf segment of tobacco leaf raw material;

[0025] Optionally, the leaf tip segment is from a leaf in the middle portion of a tobacco plant, and the leaf mid-segment is from a leaf in the upper portion of a tobacco plant;

[0026] Further optionally, the variety of the cigar filler tobacco leaves includes Haiyan 200.

[0027] The aforementioned method for evaluating the quality differences between different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves can effectively evaluate the quality differences between different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves by comparing and analyzing the appearance quality, physical properties, chemical composition and sensory quality of tobacco leaves in different sections, providing a theoretical basis for more targeted adjustments to the placement of cigar filler tobacco leaves and the orientation of leaf bundles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments and examples of this application and to provide a more complete understanding of the application and its beneficial effects, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments or examples. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. Those skilled in the art can also derive other drawings based on these drawings without inventive effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a flow chart for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves in one embodiment of the present application;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of tobacco leaf cutting in one embodiment of the present application;

[0031] Figure 3 The appearance quality scores of filler tobacco leaves in different sections in one embodiment of the present application, where A is the appearance quality score of the middle filler tobacco leaves in different sections, and B is the appearance quality score of the upper filler tobacco leaves in different sections;

[0032] Figure 4 The chemical composition of the middle filler tobacco leaves in different sections in one embodiment of the present application;

[0033] Figure 5 The chemical composition of the upper filler tobacco leaves in different sections in one embodiment of the present application;

[0034] Figure 6 These are the sensory quality scores of the filler tobacco leaves in different sections in one embodiment of the present application, wherein A is the sensory quality score of the filler tobacco leaves in the middle of different sections, and B is the sensory quality score of the filler tobacco leaves in the upper section of different sections. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] To facilitate understanding of the present application, a more comprehensive description of the present application will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings illustrate preferred embodiments of the present application. However, the present application may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the disclosure of the present application.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application pertains. The terms used herein in the specification of this application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0037] In this application, the terms "optionally," "optional," and "optional" mean optional or dispensable, i.e., they refer to either option being selected from two parallel options: "with" or "without." If a technical solution contains multiple "optional" clauses, each "optional" clause is independent unless otherwise specified and there are no contradictions or constraints.

[0038] In this application, "preferred", "better", "more preferred" and "suitable" are only used to describe implementation methods or examples with better effects. It should be understood that they do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this application.

[0039] As used herein, the terms "having," "containing," "including," and "comprising" are synonymous and are inclusive or open-ended, not excluding additional, unrecited members or features. Examples of members or features include materials or components, structures, elements, and instruments. Non-limiting examples of members or features include actions, conditions for the occurrence of actions, timing, and states.

[0040] In this application, the technical features or technical solutions described in open language include closed technical features or technical solutions composed of the listed contents, and also include open technical features or technical solutions containing the listed contents.

[0041] In this application, when referring to the unit of a data range, if the unit is only after the right endpoint, it means that the units of the left endpoint and the right endpoint are the same.

[0042] In this application, if a method flow involves multiple steps, unless otherwise specified herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in an order other than the order described. Moreover, any step can include multiple sub-steps or multiple stages, and these sub-steps or stages do not necessarily need to be completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times, and their execution order is not necessarily sequential, but can be executed in turn, alternating, or simultaneously with other steps or parts of sub-steps or stages of other steps.

[0043] In this application, exemplary descriptions such as "in some embodiments (or examples)" and "in one embodiment (or example)" may include but are not limited to the following meanings: these solutions can be combined with other solutions in a suitable manner to form new technical solutions.

[0044] In this application, the terms "first" and "second" in "the first aspect" and "the second aspect" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or quantity, nor should they be understood as implicitly indicating the importance or quantity of the technical features indicated. Furthermore, "first" and "second" serve only as non-exhaustive enumeration and description and should be understood not to constitute a closed-ended limitation on quantity.

[0045] In this application, when referring to a numerical interval (i.e., a numerical range), unless otherwise specified, the distribution of the optional numerical values ​​within the numerical interval is deemed to be continuous and includes the two numerical endpoints of the numerical interval (i.e., the minimum and maximum values), as well as every numerical value between these two numerical endpoints. Unless otherwise specified, when a numerical interval refers only to integers within the numerical interval, it includes the two endpoint integers of the numerical range, as well as every integer between the two endpoints, which is equivalent to directly listing every integer. When multiple numerical ranges are provided to describe a feature or characteristic, these numerical ranges can be combined. In other words, unless otherwise specified, the numerical ranges disclosed herein should be understood to include any and all subranges included therein. The "numerical value" in the numerical interval can be any quantitative value, such as a number, percentage, ratio, etc. "Numerical interval" allows for a broad range of numerical interval types including percentage intervals, ratio intervals, and ratio intervals.

[0046] In this application, "greater than or equal to", "greater than or equal to", and "≥" have the same meaning and can be used interchangeably; "less than or equal to", "less than or equal to", and "≤" have the same meaning and can be used interchangeably; "greater than" can be equivalently expressed as ">", and "less than" can be equivalently expressed as "<". In this application, unless otherwise specified, "greater than or equal to" and "≥" can be regarded as providing two solutions of "greater than" and "equal to". In this application, unless otherwise specified, "less than or equal to" and "≤" can be regarded as providing two solutions of "less than" and "equal to".

[0047] Currently, there is a shortage of high-quality cigar raw materials, which seriously restricts the process of import substitution and the high-quality development of Chinese cigars. In addition, there is little research on the quality differences of cigars in different segments.

[0048] Based on this, the embodiments of the present application at least provide a method and application for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves.

[0049] In the first aspect of the present application, a method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves is provided, as shown in the flow chart. Figure 1 As shown, the following steps are included:

[0050] S100: Cut the cigar filler tobacco leaf into three sections along two positions perpendicular to the main vein, namely the tip section, the middle section, and the base section, wherein the length ratio of the tip section, the middle section, and the base section is (0.8-1.2):(0.8-1.2):(0.8-1.2);

[0051] S200: Appearance quality identification, physical property determination, chemical composition detection and sensory quality evaluation of the leaf tip, mid-leaf and base segments are performed respectively;

[0052] S300: Conduct comparative analysis based on the appearance quality, physical properties, chemical composition and sensory quality evaluation results of tobacco leaves in different sections to confirm the applicable positions of different sections.

[0053] In some embodiments, in step S100, the cigar filler tobacco leaf is divided into two halves along the main vein, and the half cigar filler tobacco leaf is cut into three sections perpendicular to the main vein, namely, the tip section, the middle section, and the base section.

[0054] In some embodiments, in step S100, the length ratio of the tip segment, the mid-blade segment, and the base segment may be, but is not limited to, 0.8:0.8:1, 0.8:1:1, 1:0.8:1, 0.9:1:0.9, 1:0.8:1, 1.1:1:1, 1.2:1:1, 0.8:1:1.2, 1:1:1, or a ratio or range between any two of the above ratios.

[0055] It should be noted that, considering the usability of cigars, that is, when rolling cigars, if the tip section, middle section or base section of the leaf is too short after cutting, it will be discarded, and the quality differences of the filler tobacco leaves between different sections cannot be effectively analyzed.

[0056] In some embodiments, in step S100, the cigar filler tobacco leaves come from at least one of the middle leaves of the tobacco plant and the upper leaves of the tobacco plant.

[0057] In some embodiments, the variety of cigar filler tobacco includes Haiyan 200.

[0058] In some embodiments, in step S200, the indicators for appearance quality assessment include one or more of color, maturity, identity, leaf structure, and oil content, with weights of 15%, 35%, 20%, 10%, and 20% for each indicator, respectively. Furthermore, the score ranges for each indicator are as follows: a) Color: Dark Brown 8-10, Reddish Brown 7-9, Khaki 6-8, Orange 4-6, Blue-Gray 2-4; b) Maturity: Well-Ripe 8-10, Mature 7-9, Fairly Ripe 6-8, Underripe 4-6; c) Identity: Moderate 8-10, Slightly Thin / Slightly Thick 7-9, Thin 6-8, Thick 4-6, Too Thick / Too Thin 2-4; d) Leaf Structure: Loose 8-10, Fairly Loose 7-9, Slightly Dense 6-8, Dense 4-6; e) Oil Content: Excessive 8-10, Some 7-9, Slightly Some 6-8, Less 4-6. In some embodiments, in step S200, the physical property indicators measured include one or more of equilibrium moisture content, stem content, thickness, and leaf mass.

[0059] In some embodiments, determining the equilibrium moisture content comprises:

[0060] S100': cutting the tip, middle and base sections of the cigar filler tobacco leaves into small pieces with a width of less than or equal to 5 mm, balancing and mixing them, and then weighing them;

[0061] S200': Dry the small pieces and weigh them to calculate the equilibrium moisture content.

[0062] In some embodiments, in step S100 ′, the width of the small piece may be, but is not limited to, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, or a value or range between any two of the above values.

[0063] In some embodiments, in step S200', the equilibrium conditions include a temperature of 21°C to 23°C and a relative humidity of 57% to 63%. Without limitation, the temperature may be, but is not limited to, 21°C, 22°C, 23°C, or a value or range between any two of the above values; the relative humidity may be, but is not limited to, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, or a value or range between any two of the above values.

[0064] In some embodiments, in step S200', the equilibration time is 6 to 8 days. Without limitation, the equilibration time can be, but is not limited to, 6 days, 7 days, 8 days, or a value or range between any two of the above values.

[0065] In some embodiments, in step S200', the drying temperature is 98°C to 102°C. Non-limitingly, the drying temperature can be, but is not limited to, 98°C, 99°C, 100°C, 101°C, 102°C, or a value or range between any two of the above values.

[0066] In some embodiments, in step S200', the drying time is 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours. Non-limitingly, the drying time can be, but is not limited to, 1.5 hours, 2 hours, 2.5 hours, or a value or range between any two of the above values.

[0067] In some embodiments, in step S200', the stem content, thickness, and leaf mass are measured using cigar filler tobacco leaves having an equilibrium moisture content of 14% to 18%. Without limitation, the equilibrium moisture content of the cigar filler tobacco leaves can be, but is not limited to, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, or any value or range between any two of the aforementioned values.

[0068] In some embodiments, in step S200, the chemical composition detection index includes one or more of total sugar content, reducing sugar content, total alkaloid content, total nitrogen content, potassium content, and chlorine content. It should be noted that the determination of chemical composition can be carried out using conventional methods in the art.

[0069] In some embodiments, in step S200, the sensory quality evaluation indicators include one or more of aroma, richness, maturity, pungency, softness, fineness, sweetness, cleanliness, aftertaste, burningness, grayness, and ashness.

[0070] In some embodiments, the cut tobacco leaves are rolled into cigars, which are then smoked by a sensory quality evaluation panel of experts.

[0071] In some embodiments, in step S300, the difference comparison analysis is performed using SAS 9.4 software for statistical analysis.

[0072] The above-mentioned method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves can effectively evaluate the quality differences of cigar filler tobacco leaves between different sections by comparing and analyzing the appearance quality, physical properties, chemical composition and sensory quality of tobacco leaves in different sections, and provide a theoretical basis for more targeted adjustment of the placement position of cigar filler tobacco leaves and the orientation of leaf bundles.

[0073] In a second aspect of the present application, a cigar product is provided, comprising a wrapper, a binder, and a filler, wherein the filler comprises at least one of a tip segment and a mid-leaf segment of tobacco leaf material. Furthermore, the tip segment is derived from a mid-leaf leaf of a tobacco plant, and the mid-leaf segment is derived from an upper-leaf leaf of a tobacco plant. Furthermore, the cigar filler tobacco comprises Haiyan 200.

[0074] In some embodiments, the tip section is positioned at the burning end of the cigar article.

[0075] Some examples are provided below.

[0076] The embodiments of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the examples. It should be understood that these examples are intended to illustrate the present application only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present application. The experimental methods for which the conditions are not specified in the following examples are preferably referred to the guidance provided in the present application, and may also be based on the experimental manuals or conventional conditions in this area, or on the conditions recommended by the manufacturer, or with reference to experimental methods known in the art.

[0077] In the following examples, the measured parameters of raw material components may have slight deviations within the range of weighing accuracy unless otherwise specified. For temperature and time parameters, acceptable deviations caused by instrument testing accuracy or operating accuracy are allowed.

[0078] Example 1

[0079] 1 Materials and Methods

[0080] 1.1 Test materials

[0081] The experiment was conducted in Wuping County, Longyan City, Fujian Province in 2023, using the Haiyan 200 variety. Agricultural fermentation was used, and according to the "YC / T 588-2021 Cigar Tobacco Industrial and Commercial Handover Grade Standard," 2 kg each of uniformly high-quality mid- and upper-grade cigar filler leaves, graded Fi-C-2-Bt-M and Fi-B-2-Bt-M, were collected.

[0082] 1.2 Experimental Design

[0083] In this example, two parts (B and C) were used as experimental blocks, and three treatments were set up in each block. After the main veins were removed and fully stretched, the tobacco leaves were cut into the tip section (LS), the middle section (LZ) and the base section (LX) along the direction perpendicular to the main veins. The cutting length ratio was 1:1:1. The tobacco leaves in different sections after cutting were subjected to appearance quality identification, physical property measurement, chemical composition detection and sensory quality evaluation. Three groups of replicates were set up for each treatment. The specific cutting method is as follows: Figure 2 shown.

[0084] 1.3 Measurement indicators and methods

[0085] 1.3.1 Appearance quality evaluation

[0086] Referring to the research method in patent CN114118865A, five indicators, including color, maturity, identity, leaf structure, and oil content, were selected to evaluate the appearance quality of filler tobacco leaves in different sections. The specific judgment criteria are shown in Table 1, and the weights of each indicator are 15%, 35%, 20%, 10%, and 20%, respectively.

[0087] Table 1 Criteria for judging the appearance quality of citrus fillers

[0088]

[0089] 1.3.2 Physical property determination

[0090] Equilibrium moisture content determination: Randomly select five tobacco leaves and cut them into three sections. Each section is then cut into small pieces no wider than 5 mm. Equilibrate the leaves under standard ambient conditions (temperature 22 ± 1°C) and relative humidity (60% ± 3%) for 7 days. After mixing, weigh 5-10 g of the sample using a sample box with a known dry mass and record the sample mass. Remove the cover and place the leaves in an oven at 100 ± 2°C. Dry for 2 hours, starting from the time the temperature returns to 100°C. Then, cover the leaves, remove them, place them in a desiccator, cool to room temperature, and weigh them. Calculate the leaf moisture content: Leaf moisture content (%) = 100 × (sample weight - post-drying weight) / sample weight.

[0091] Determination of stem content: Randomly select 10 tobacco leaves with an equilibrium moisture content of 16.5±0.5%, cut them and weigh them using an electronic balance. After removing the stems, weigh the stem weight and calculate the stem content.

[0092] Thickness measurement: Randomly select 10 tobacco leaves with a moisture content of 16.5±0.5%. After cutting, use a thickness meter to measure the thickness of each cut section twice. The sample thickness is the average value of 20 times.

[0093] Leaf weight determination: Five tobacco leaves with a moisture content of 15.0±0.5% were randomly selected from each treatment. After cutting, five circular pieces were punched out for each cut section using a 15 mm diameter circular punch. The 50 circular pieces were placed in a moisture box, dried at 100°C for 2 h, cooled for 30 min, and weighed to calculate the mass per unit area.

[0094] 1.3.3 Chemical composition determination

[0095] Tobacco leaf samples from each treatment were oven-dried, ground, and passed through a 0.45 mm (40 mesh) sieve. Conventional chemical compositions, including total sugars, reducing sugars, total alkaloids, total nitrogen, potassium, and chloride, were determined in tobacco leaves according to the following standards: YC / T 159—2002 Tobacco and Tobacco Products—Determination of Water-Soluble Sugars—Continuous Flow Method; YC / T 160—2017 Tobacco and Tobacco Products—Determination of Total Alkaloids—Continuous Flow Method; YC / T 161—2002 Tobacco and Tobacco Products—Determination of Total Nitrogen—Continuous Flow Method; YC / T 217—2007 Tobacco and Tobacco Products—Determination of Potassium—Continuous Flow Method; and YC / T 162—2011 Tobacco and Tobacco Products—Determination of Chlorine—Continuous Flow Method.

[0096] 1.3.4 Sensory quality evaluation

[0097] The cut tobacco leaf samples were rolled into cigars with a length of 110 mm and a diameter of 14 mm. After curing in a constant temperature and humidity chamber for 4 months, the samples were evaluated by the sensory quality evaluation team of Sichuan China Tobacco Great Wall Cigar Factory. The specific evaluation indicators and scoring standards are shown in Table 2.

[0098] Table 2 Sensory quality evaluation criteria for cigar tobacco leaves

[0099]

[0100] 1.4 Data Processing

[0101] Microsoft Excel 2016 was used for raw data processing, SAS 9.4 was used for statistical analysis, and Origin 2024 was used for chart creation.

[0102] 2 Results and Analysis

[0103] 2.1 Differences in the appearance quality of filler tobacco leaves in different sections

[0104] like Figure 3As shown in Figure A, the weighted total scores for the appearance quality of the three middle filler tobacco sections, LS, LZ, and LX, were 8.62, 8.27, and 7.87, respectively, showing a trend of LS > LZ > LX. The LS section had the highest scores for color, identity, and oil content, with weighted scores of 1.35, 1.80, and 1.70, respectively. The LX section had the lowest scores for color and maturity, with weighted scores of 1.12 and 2.8, respectively. Figure 3 Results in Figure B show that the appearance quality of the upper filler tobacco segments follows the order LZ > LS > LX, with weighted scores of 8.55, 8.10, and 7.72, respectively. The LZ segment exhibited the best color, maturity, and oil content, with weighted scores of 1.42, 2.97, and 1.80, respectively. The LX segment had the lowest scores for identity and leaf structure, with weighted scores of 1.20 and 0.60, respectively.

[0105] 2.2 Differences in physical properties of filler tobacco leaves in different sections

[0106] As shown in Table 3, the trends of stem content, leaf thickness, and leaf weight in different sections of the middle and upper filler tobacco leaves were consistent. The stem content of tobacco leaves in different sections of the middle leaf ranged from 10.81% to 54.38%, and in the upper section from 10.42% to 50.91%, showing the order of LX>LZ>LS, with significant differences between treatments. In terms of leaf thickness, the thickness of the filler tobacco leaves in different sections of the middle and upper leaves showed the order of LS>LZ>LX, and the thickness differences between the sections reached a significant level. The leaf weight of the filler tobacco leaves in different sections of the middle leaf was significantly highest in the LS section, at 58.32 g·m -2 , LZ segment is 50.54 g·m -2 , LX segment is 50.27 g·m -2 The leaf weight of the upper tobacco leaves followed the order LS > LZ > LX, with significant differences among the segments. The equilibrium moisture content of the middle leaves varied significantly, with the LX segment having the highest moisture content at 22.12%. The LZ segment had the highest equilibrium moisture content of the upper leaves at 19.12%.

[0107] Table 3 Physical properties of filler tobacco leaves in different sections

[0108]

[0109] Note: Different lowercase letters indicate significant differences among treatments (p<0.05). Same below.

[0110] 2.3 Differences in chemical composition of filler tobacco leaves from different sections

[0111] like Figure 4As shown, in the middle filler tobacco leaves, nicotine levels were highest in the LS section, followed by the LZ section, and lowest in the LX section, with significant differences between the different sections. Total sugar and reducing sugar content followed the order LS > LZ > LX, with total sugar and reducing sugar levels in the LS section at 0.79% and 0.28%, respectively, in the LZ section at 0.63% and 0.23%, and in the LX section at 0.53% and 0.19%, respectively. Significant differences were observed between the sections. Total nitrogen content was highest in the LS section at 3.09%, while lowest in the LX section at 2.91%. The LS section had significantly higher total nitrogen content than the LX section, but no significant difference was found between the LS and LZ sections. Potassium content was highest in the LZ section at 5.46%, and lowest in the LX section at 5.04%. Potassium content in the LZ section was significantly higher than in both the LS and LX sections. Chloride content was highest in the LX section at 2.57%, and lowest in the LS section at 2.20%, with significant differences between the treatments.

[0112] like Figure 5 As shown, among the different sections of the upper filler tobacco leaves, the LS section had the highest nicotine, total sugar, and reducing sugar contents, followed by the LZ section, and the LX section had lower contents, with significant differences between sections. Total nitrogen content in the LS, LZ, and LX sections of the filler tobacco leaves was 3.18%, 3.10%, and 3.00%, respectively, with no significant differences between sections. Potassium content in the LS, LZ, and LX sections was 5.61%, 5.21%, and 4.73%, respectively, and chloride content was 2.10%, 2.47%, and 2.70%, respectively, with significant differences between sections.

[0113] 2.4 Differences in sensory quality of filler tobacco leaves in different sections

[0114] like Figure 6 As shown in A, for the middle filler tobacco leaves, the LS section has sufficient aroma, high to high maturity, low irritation, fair to clean cleanliness, slightly good to good aftertaste, slightly good to good combustibility, slightly lacking in fineness, softness, and sweetness, and has a low gray score. The overall performance of the LZ section and the LX section is similar, and the LX section has the lowest sensory evaluation score for richness and maturity. The sensory quality evaluation of different sections of the middle filler tobacco leaves is ranked as LS>LZ>LX. The sensory quality scores of different sections of the upper filler tobacco leaves are as follows: Figure 6 As shown in Figure B, the tobacco leaves in the LZ segment had a relatively full to full aroma, a relatively rich to rich flavor, low pungency, a relatively clean cleanness, and a good aftertaste, performing well overall. The tobacco leaves in the LX segment performed poorly overall, with low scores for finesse, sweetness, and aftertaste, and a low gray score. The sensory quality ranking of the three segments was LZ > LS > LX.

[0115] 3 Discussion

[0116] Appearance quality is an important indicator for evaluating the quality of wrappers. For fillers, it can, to a certain extent, measure sensory quality and also reflect changes in the chemical composition of the tobacco leaves. The results of this example show that the LS section of the middle filler leaves exhibited the best appearance quality, while the LX section performed the worst. For the upper filler leaves, the LZ section exhibited the best appearance quality, while the LX section performed the worst, similar to the results of previous studies. Both the middle LS section and the upper LZ section of the filler leaves exhibited the best color and oil content. This may be due to the fact that during field growth, the tips and mid-leaf of cigar tobacco leaves grow higher than the base, providing ample light and good ventilation, resulting in a rich accumulation of substances that are fully decomposed and transformed during the drying and fermentation stages.

[0117] As the core of a cigar, the physical properties of the filler are crucial factors in determining tobacco leaf quality. The results of this example show that the thickness and weight of the middle and upper filler tobacco leaves are highest in the LS section and lowest in the LX section. The stem content is highest in the LX section and lowest in the LS section. This may be because the tips and mid-leaf portions of field tobacco leaves receive ample sunlight, resulting in relatively thicker leaves and a higher leaf surface density. However, the base of the leaf grows more slowly than the tips and mid-leaf portions, resulting in a relatively thinner leaf.

[0118] The chemical composition of filler tobacco leaves directly impacts the smoking quality of cigars. Common chemical components include nicotine, total sugars, reducing sugars, total nitrogen, potassium, and chlorine. During smoking, nitrogen-containing compounds primarily regulate the pH of the smoke, providing physiological strength and aroma concentration. Excessive nitrogen-containing compounds can increase smoke irritation and pungency, masking aroma and reducing aroma quality and quantity. Nicotine, the most important alkaloid among nitrogen-containing compounds, affects smoke concentration and strength. Sugar content in tobacco leaves is significantly correlated with smoke concentration and strength. Tobacco prefers potassium and dislikes chlorine primarily because its content significantly influences the burning properties of the leaves. Incomplete burning of tobacco leaves results in incomplete decomposition of potential aroma compounds and the generation of odors. Therefore, increasing the potassium content and reducing the chlorine content in tobacco leaves can improve burning properties and further enhance aroma quantity and quality. The results of this example show that the nicotine, total sugar, reducing sugar, and total nitrogen contents of mid- and upper-cut cigar leaves are highest in the LS section and lowest in the LX section. The potassium content of the middle filler tobacco leaves was highest in the LZ section and lowest in the LX section. The chlorine content was highest in the LX section and lowest in the LS section. The potassium content of the upper filler tobacco leaves was highest in the LS section and lowest in the LS section, which is generally consistent with previous research results. Analysis of chemical composition and quality differences between different sections of cigar filler and wrapper tobacco leaves. This may be due to less accumulation of substances at the leaf base, resulting in a loose leaf structure, which is the first to brown during the curing process and causes more decomposition. Some scholars believe that the differences in the distribution of leaf substances are related to the leaf's water loss rate.

[0119] The sensory smoking quality of tobacco leaves is an important evaluation method for determining their usability, and the score reflects the quality of the smoking experience. The smoking results of this example show that the LS and upper LZ sections of the middle filler tobacco leaves scored higher in all aspects of the smoking experience, with better aroma volume and quality, as well as better combustibility. This is due to the accumulation of substances in the tips and mid-leaf, sufficient conversion during air-conditioning and fermentation, and a balanced chemical composition, resulting in a high concentration of aroma components.

[0120] The results of this embodiment show that the tip of the leaf has better combustion properties, so the tip of the leaf can be placed at the combustion end to play a role in assisting combustion and ignition. In addition, when making frog-leg tobacco leaves for the cigar core, considering that the quality of the tip of the leaf is relatively good, for tobacco leaves with thinner main veins, the proportion of tobacco stems retained at the tip of the leaf can be appropriately increased, thereby reducing the loss of the leaf tip during the stem removal process. Cigar core tobacco leaves are usually torn apart and cross-overlapped during normal rolling, while the cigar wrapper and binder must maintain their integrity. Therefore, this cutting method is in principle only applicable to cigar core tobacco leaves. Based on the conclusions of this study, pre-cutting can be carried out according to the differences in quality characteristics of the sections of single-grade formula tobacco leaves. When rolling high-end, high-quality cigars, targeted selection can be made to focus on using sections with better quality, thereby achieving refined product formula design.

[0121] 4 Conclusion

[0122] In Fujian tobacco-growing areas, distinct sections of cigar filler tobacco exhibit significant differences in appearance, physical properties, chemical composition, and sensory quality. Overall, the LS section of the middle leaves offers the best overall quality, while the LZ section of the upper leaves offers the best overall quality. By identifying filler tobacco sections, industrial companies can more specifically adjust the placement and orientation of filler leaves, improving the stability of sensory quality.

[0123] The technical features of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. In order to make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above-mentioned embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0124] The above-described embodiments merely represent several implementation methods of the present application. While the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent. It should be noted that a person skilled in the art could make several modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit of the present application, all of which fall within the scope of protection of the present application. Therefore, the scope of protection of the patent in this application shall be based on the appended claims, and the specification and drawings may be used to interpret the claims.

Claims

1. A method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: The cigar filler tobacco leaf is cut into three sections along two positions perpendicular to the main vein, namely, the tip section, the middle section, and the base section, wherein the length ratio of the tip section, the middle section, and the base section is (0.8-1.2):(0.8-1.2):(0.8-1.2); The leaf tip section, leaf mid-section and leaf base section are respectively subjected to appearance quality identification, physical property measurement, chemical composition detection and sensory quality evaluation; Based on the results of appearance quality, physical properties, chemical composition and sensory quality evaluation of tobacco leaves in different sections, a comparative analysis of the differences is conducted to confirm the applicable positions of different sections.

2. The method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cigar filler tobacco leaves are from at least one of the middle leaves and the upper leaves of the tobacco plant; Optionally, the variety of the cigar filler tobacco leaves includes Haiyan 200.

3. The method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves according to claim 1, characterized in that: The indicators for appearance quality identification include one or more of color, maturity, identity, leaf structure and oil content, wherein the weight of each indicator is 15%, 35%, 20%, 10% and 20% respectively; Optionally, the score range of each indicator is: a) Color: dark brown 8-10, reddish brown 7-9, khaki 6-8, orange 4-6, blue-gray 2-4; b) Maturity: fully ripe 8-10, mature 7-9, fairly ripe 6-8, underripe 4-6; c) Identity: moderate 8-10, slightly thin / slightly thick 7-9, thin 6-8, thick 4-6, too thick / too thin 2-4; d) Leaf structure: loose 8-10, fairly loose 7-9, slightly dense 6-8, dense 4-6; e) Oil content: high 8-10, some 7-9, slightly some 6-8, low 4-6.

4. The method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves according to claim 1, characterized in that: The indicators for measuring the physical properties include one or more of equilibrium moisture content, stem content, thickness and leaf quality.

5. The method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves according to claim 4, characterized in that: The determination of the equilibrium moisture content comprises: Cut the tip, middle and base sections of the cigar filler tobacco leaves into small pieces with a width of less than or equal to 5 mm, balance and mix them, and then weigh them; The small pieces are dried and weighed to calculate the equilibrium moisture content.

6. The method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves according to claim 5, characterized in that: Meet one or more of the following conditions: The equilibrium conditions include: temperature of 21°C to 23°C and relative humidity of 57% to 63%; The balancing time is 6 to 8 days; The drying temperature is 98°C to 102°C; The drying time is 1.5h~2.5h.

7. The method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves according to claim 4, characterized in that: The determination of the stem content, thickness and leaf quality is carried out using cigar filler tobacco leaves with an equilibrium moisture content of 14% to 18%.

8. The method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves according to claim 1, characterized in that: The indicators of the chemical composition detection include one or more of total sugar content, reducing sugar content, total alkaloid content, total nitrogen content, potassium content and chlorine content.

9. The method for evaluating the quality differences of different sections of cigar filler tobacco leaves according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sensory quality evaluation index includes one or more of aroma, richness, maturity, pungency, softness, fineness, sweetness, cleanliness, aftertaste, burning property, grayness and tuffiness.

10. A cigar product, characterized in that: The tobacco leaf comprises a wrapper, a binder and a filler, wherein the filler comprises at least one of a tip section and a mid-section of a tobacco leaf raw material; Optionally, the leaf tip segment is from a leaf in the middle portion of a tobacco plant, and the leaf mid-segment is from a leaf in the upper portion of a tobacco plant; Further optionally, the variety of the tobacco raw material includes Haiyan 200.

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