Effect of Post Harvest Treatments on Storage Behavior and Quality of Tomato Fruits

Abstract

Abstract: Different concentrations of CaCl2with and without modified atmosphere were investigated on storage behavior and quality of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum, Mill.) fruits under laboratory conditions so as to test the effect of post harvest treatments to prolong shelf life of perishable fruits. The fruits were prepared for eight treatments with three replications in completely randomized design (CRD). Physio-chemical analysis of the fruit was made in seven days interval. The results indicate that the role of CaCl 2 as an aspect of ethylene absorbents and delay of ripening rates by facilitating retention of firmness, quality and improving shelf life. Tomatoes treated with CaCl2 concentrations and covered with ventilated polythene bags were found to be best suited to the presence for more than a month without much affecting quality. Statistically significant (P<0.01) minimum loss of physiochemical characteristics was observed on fruits treated with 8 % CaCl2 and packed in ventilated polythene cover as compared to the control. Thus, it could be concluded that ethylene absorbents in conjugation with controlled storage atmosphere may have a prominent commercial potential to prolong shelf life of tomato fruits and reduce economic losses. The findings have significant contribution to reduce economic post harvest losses of perishable fruits and evidence to researchers.