Cumulative effect of modified atmospheric packaging on the textural and chemical properties of aonla cut-fruits during storage

Abstract

The main objective of this research study was to develop a modified environment packaging system for the Indian gooseberry (Aonla) and characterization of its shelf life during storage. The experiment was conducted in PE bags under three different modified atmospheres viz., MAP1 (O2 = 5%, CO2 = 10% & N2 = 85%), MAP2 (O2 = 10%, CO2 = 20% & N2 = 70%), MAP3 (O2 = 15%, CO2 = 30% & N2 = 55%) with various pre-treatments (0.05% Sorbitol, 1% Calcium chloride and 3% Citric acid). After the treatments, fruits were stored at 5°C and 10°C at 90 – 95% relative humidity (RH). Periodically, the product was evaluated for weight loss, firmness, puncture strength, polyphenol content as well as antioxidant potential. Among the different atmospheres investigated, samples under MAP1 showed minimum changes in the physical and chemical properties during storage at 5°C as well as 10°C. The samples retained freshness and aroma along with intact antioxidant properties.