Modified atmosphere packaging of fresh Bengal gram (Cicer arietinum L.) kernels for shelf life enhancement

Abstract

Bengal gram (Cicer arietinum L.) is a member of leguminous family. India is single largest producer of bengal gram. Premature bengal gram green kernels is used for direct consumption as well as for making other preparation for food items. The fresh bengal gram kernel has very short shelf life at room temperature. The modified atmosphere packaging is used to improve the shelf life of fresh Bengal gram kernels. In present study six different gas and temperature combinations were used with (2%O2 and 8% CO2; 5% O2 and 8% CO2) and HDPE packaging films. The storage was done at ambient, 5±1, 0±1 °C temperature. Treatment combination G1T3 (2% O2 and 8% CO2 and 0±1 °C) was found acceptable bases on qualitative and physiological attributes till 15 days for HDPE packaging film.