Correlation Between NIR Spectra and RVA Parameters During Germination of Maize

The physical, chemical, and morphological changes of maize seeds during germination were investigated using near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and a method based on the Rapid Visco Analyser (RVA). Near‐infrared spectra provide information about both chemical and physical changes that occur in maize seed. The RVA curves make it possible to follow the process of germination. Four RVA parameters (peak viscosity, final viscosity, trough, and setback) were linearly correlated with germination time (R = 0.64–0.96), while the first derivatives of RVA curves contain specific information about starch structure. Water‐soluble protein (WSP) content of germinated maize seeds was measured using a flow injection analyser; this technique proved to be suitable for monitoring germination by following the mobilization of proteins. WSP and RVA parameters were highly correlated (R² = 0.82–0.95) with predicted values calculated from NIR spectra of dry samples. Strong intercorrelations existed between NIR spectra and viscosity data from the beginning of the swelling and gelatinization process. The NIR and RVA methods and WSP measurements are sensitive tools for investigating the physiological status of maize seeds during germination. Detecting early phase of germination and predicting functional properties rapidly and nondestructively may enhance the importance of NIR spectroscopic methods in agricultural quality control.