Use of calcium compound and modified atmospheric packaging of Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) for shelf-life enhancement

Abstract

Indian gooseberry or aonla is known for rich source of ascorbic acid, polyphenols, minerals, and nutraceuticals. Fruits are highly perishable due to spoilage and browning and our objective was to enhance shelf life by use of modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) and calcium hydroxide. Mature fruits of aonla cvs NA-7 and NA-10 were subjected to treatments like, control, 2% ventilated LDPE (200 gauge) film (T1) and T1+ dipped in 2% (w/v) Ca(OH)2 solution (T2) for 30 minutes and stored under ambient condition (18 + 3 oC; 55-65% RH). Storage attributes were studied at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 days intervals. LDPE film 2% ventilated + 2% Ca(OH)2 was found effective to prolong the shelf life for 15 days. After 9 days of storage T1 has reduced loss in weight, browning and ascorbic acid with more spoilage. Control fruits deteriorated heavily owing to browning and spoilage and could be stored for 9 days. Cultivar NA-10 had a shelf life of 15 days as compared to NA-7. For extending storability, fruits should be packed in 2% ventilated LDPE film after treating with 2% calcium hydroxide solution