Title

Effects of methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) post-cutting treatment on the storage quality of fresh-cut white dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus

Date

2016

Abstract

To determine the potential of the ethylene antagonist 1-methylcycloropene (1-MCP) as a tool in maintaining the storage quality of fresh-cut white dragon fruit variety. It was applied as a post-cutting treatment at a concentration of 5ppm by injecting gaseous 1-MCP into packs of dragon fruit slices in PET tray overwrapped with LDPE stretchable film. After 1-MCP treatment, samples were stored at 5-10 deg C and monitored for deterioration parameters during storage. Physiological responses such as ethylene and CO2 production were measured using gas chromatography. Physico-chemical parameters such as pH. TSS, TA, firmness, color and visual quality were also monitored during storage. Microbial analyses were also performed such as total plate count, yeasts and mold count and total coliform count. 1-MCP was observed to cause a significant increase in ethylene production while no effect on CO2 production were noted. Visual quality ratings were higher with the 1-MCP treatment while lesser extent of water-soaking was obtained also with the 1-MCP treated fruits. Lesser browning was also observed in the 1-MCP treatment which became predominant starting at day 5 storage. Lightness (L*) was likewise higher starting at day 5 and onwards. 1-MCP also caused a decline in pH values which corresponded to a higher % TA. Firmness and total soluble solids were not influenced by 1-MCP. Microbial counts were considered safe until day 7 storage based on limits set by European Union countries, with 1-MCP treated fruits having slightly lower total aerobic bacterial counts and yeasts and mold counts.

Book Title

The use of the ethylene antagonists 1- methylycopropene (1-MCP) to prolong the storage life of minimally processed tropical fruits and vegetables

Language

English

En – AGROVOC descriptors

HYLOCEREUS UNDATOS; DRAGON FRUITS; CUTTING; STORAGE; KEEPING QUALITY

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