Research on using natural coating materials on the storage life of mango fruit cv. Nam Dok Mai and technology dissemination.
Muangdech A.
Author Affiliation: Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajabhat Rajanagarindra University, Chachoengsao 24000, Thailand.
Walailak Journal of Science and Technology 13 : 205-220
Abstract : This study was designed to assess the suitable type and concentration of 3 natural coating materials, namely, Aloe vera gel, chitosan and carnaubar wax, on postharvest storage life of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Nam Dok Mai. The experiment was divided into 3 treatments to compare the 3 types of coating materials and each appropriate concentration, to find the appropriate combination treatment, and to evaluate the benefit of this technology. The objectives of this research were to compare different concentrations and study the type of natural coating materials. At 20% Aloe vera jelly, 1% chitosan and 4% carnaubar wax gave the longest storage life with good quality at 12 days at a storage temperature of 25°C and 75±5% relative humidity (p?0.05). Further investigation was done by using these optimal concentrations alone or in combination under 2 different conditions, 25°C with 75±5% relative humidity and 13°C with 90±5% relative humidity. It was found that coating with combination of 20% Aloe vera jelly and 1% chitosan gave the best result in alleviating the formation of brown spot and extended the storage life up to 12 days as well as slowing down the weight loss, changes in peel and pulp color, firmness, texture, quality such as concentrate by titratable acidity, total soluble solids and respiratory rate significantly compared to control and other treatment (p?0.05). The use of the coating materials did not alter the quality of the fruit when ripe. Technology dissemination to farmers and exporters was performed by using the training manuals created by the author. The results of the pre-test and after training post-test showed that farmers and exporters increased their knowledge, attitudes, awareness and skills in the use of the natural coating materials for prolonging storage life of mangos.