Blueberry texture is a critical trait impacting mechanical harvesting, transportation resilience, shelf life, and consumer preference. Its complexity arises from multiple attributes, requiring a depth understanding for developing breeding tools to generate varieties with superior texture profiles. In this study, a diverse group of southern highbush blueberry (SHB) genotypes, reflecting various textures, were subjected to mechanical phenotyping, consumer perception analysis, and cell wall composition analysis. By conducting instrumental analysis using a texture analyzer, three key parameters crucial for genotype differentiation based on texture were identified. Consumer perception analysis revealed moderate agreement in texture classification between breeders and panelists. Additionally, cell wall composition analysis highlighted galacturonic acid as a potential monosaccharide capable of categorizing texture. The integration of mechanical phenotyping, consumer perception analysis, and cell wall composition analysis offers a comprehensive approach to dissecting blueberry texture. This enables breeders to select and develop blueberry varieties meeting consumer expectations, enhancing market competitiveness, and supporting the growth and sustainability of the global blueberry industry.
