Geographical origin identification and quality comparison of Ningxia goji berries (Lycium barbarum L.) by NMR-based techniques

Goji berry (Lycium barbarum L.) in Ningxia of China is renowned worldwide due to its superior medicinal value and great health benefits. The need of international trade makes it inevitable to understand nutritional characteristics and identify geographical indication (GI) markers. In this study, NMR-based uni- and multi-variate statistical analyses were applied to discriminate nutritional composition of Lycium barbarum L. (L. barbarum) in three geographical origins (Zhongning, Tongxin and Yinchuan) and two varieties (Ningqi No. 7 and Ningqi No. 9). The potential GI markers of each producing area were identified and the favorite variety was optimized. Among them, Zhongning L. barbarum is recommended as the optimal product due to its exceptional nutritional characteristics, and Ningqi No. 9 demonstrated could be regarded as a better choice of L. barbarum variety. The results provide a meaningful reference for establishing quality control system and monitoring illegal false labeling of L. barbarum.