A field practice report on the characterization of physico-chemical properties of cavendish (Musa acuminata Colla 'AAA Group) subjected to ethylene and hot water treatment in the Pomology Laboratory of Tsukuba, Japan

Date

6-2016

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

Major Course

Major in Agricultural and Bio-Process Engineering

College

College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology (CEAT)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Princess Tiffany G. Dantes

Abstract

Banana is an economically important crop in the country as it is one of the top exported commodities and it solely contributes to a portion of the total export earnings of the country. The variety of banana that is exported by the Philippines is 'Cavendish' banana, which is considered highly superior in its international markets. However, bananas are highly susceptible to damage brought about by improper handling during and after harvesting, pest and diseases which may already be present prior to harvesting, improper conditions during transport and storage, and inadequate market conditions. In order to maintain the quality of these fruits for which the country is known for, proper postharvest handling techniques and practices are performed. Some of these practices include heat treatment and ethylene induction. This was the focus of the field practice of the student trainee. Heat treatment by hot water bath (HWB) is performed during cleaning of fruits and is found to control crown rot and latent anthracnose infection in banana. Ethylene induction, on the other hand, is done to increase the rate of ripening of banana in the market. This study determined the effect of HWB and ethylene treatment to the physico-chemical characteristics of 'Cavendish' banana. The change in weight, color, firmness and starch content were determined. Results show that at 5% level of significance, there is a significant difference in the firmness and % starch content of the untreated samples and the treated samples, while no significant difference on the mentioned parameters were found in the treated samples. At 1% level of significance, results also showed a high correlation between color and firmness. Aside from this study, the student trainee was also able to perform other activities such as the laboratory seminar and the use of HPLC. Problems encountered in the laboratory were also noted and possible solutions were recommended.

Language

English

Location

UPLB College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology (CEAT)

Call Number

LG 993 2016 A2 A36

Document Type

Thesis

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