Effect of modified atmosphere packaging on mango ripening.
Rosa B. A., Aharoni D., Feygenberg O., Aharoni N., Keynan A., Pesis E.
Author Affiliation: Department of Postharvest Science of Fresh Produce, A.R.O., The Volcani Center, P.O.B. 6, Bet Dagan, 50250, Israel.
: 607-609
Abstract : The effects of reducing ethylene levels in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), with ethylene absorbent (EA) sachets, on the ripening of mango cultivars Tommy Atkins and Keitt were investigated. Mature Tommy Atkins or Keitt fruits were packed in 4 kg boxes using microperforated polyethylene (PE) or Xtend Films (XF). MAP bags contained 0, 1 or 2 EA sachets each containing 11 g absorbent. Six pallets of Keitt were wrapped in plastic films and stored at 12 or 8°C, and an additional 5 days at 20°C without MAP. MAP delayed ripening as observed in reduced colour development. EA further delayed fruit softening. Fruits stored in MAP showed considerable reduction in lenticel spotting after 3 weeks at 12°C. Ethylene production in Keitt was 3 times higher than that in Tommy Atkins in XF and PE packaging. Carbon dioxide levels produced by Tommy Atkins were higher than that by Keitt. MAP storage dramatically reduced the percentage of weight loss in fruits. The lowest weight loss was in the PE packaging.