Effect of gamme radiation on mangoes (Mangifera indica L.) stored under different conditions.
Farooqi W. A., Ahmad M., Hussain A., Hussain A. M.
Author Affiliation: Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology, Lyallpur, Pakistan.
Journal of Agricultural Research, Pakistan 12 : 31-42
Abstract : In 2-year trials mangoes, cv. Samar Bahishat, were picked when hard green and either irradiated with 30 kr or not irradiated and placed either in wooden boxes lined with tissue paper, wax paper or polyethylene or on perforated wooden shelves. The fruits in boxes were held at 20 deg -25 deg C or 30 deg -38 deg either in air or in a high N atmosphere and those on shelves at 30 deg -38 deg and 80-87% RH, the effects on ripening being assessed at intervals up to 15 days. Irradiated fruits held in air remained in good condition for 15 days, whereas non-irradiated fruits ripened within 5 days; high RH, however, had an adverse effect on skin colour and taste. Non-irradiated fruits held in high N remained hard and green for 15 days, and when transferred to normal air failed to ripen normally. Weight loss was not affected by irradiation, but was least in polyethylene-lined boxes, which also delayed ripening. Data are also presented on treatment effects on fruit composition and organoleptic qualities.