ISHS Acta Horticulturae 600: VIII International Controlled Atmosphere Research Conference
FROM THE PACKING SHED TO THE SUPERMARKET SHELF: THE USE OF ATMOSPHERE MODIFICATION LINERS IN 'JONAGOLD' APPLES |
| Authors: | G. Brown, L. Schimanski, D. Jennings |
| Keywords: | Malus domestica, apple, postharvest, modified atmosphere, packaging, transport, fruit quality |
| Abstract:
This study examined the effect of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) liners on apple post harvest life, for the commercial transport of ‘Jonagold’ apples from Tasmania to Asia. The treatments were: no liner, an unsealed polyethylene liner (industry standard practice), two mineral-based MAP liners and a micro perforated MAP liner (LifeSpan®). Ethylene absorbing pouches were also included in half the boxes. After removal from controlled atmosphere storage the treatments were applied and the fruit stored for 7 days at 0.5°C followed by 14 days at 5°C to simulate consolidation and transport. After removal from the shipping container the liners were removed, fruit quality measured on half the fruit and the other half were stored for 5 days at 20°C and 60% humidity to simulate retail conditions. Variables measured were: CO2, O2, ethylene, greasiness, firmness, internal browning, sugars and acidity. The industry standard practice, caused an increase in CO2 and a slight decrease in O2, resulting in reduced greasiness, but a minimal effect on other fruit quality and flavour parameters. The mineral-based modified atmosphere liners reduced O2 to about half the atmospheric levels; however, they had only a marginally greater affect on fruit quality and flavour than polyethylene liners. The LifeSpan® liner established the highest CO2 (4.2%) and lowest O2 (7.1%) levels, resulting in a significant reduction in greasiness, improved firmness and a reduction in the rate of loss of fruit acidity over the industry standard. These liners produced fruit that had a superior out turn and are therefore recommended to industry. | |
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