Production of Modified Atmospheres in Deciduous Fruits by the Use of Films and Coatings

Abstract

Abstract A range of techniques are used to preserve postharvest quality of fruit, vegetables, and other perishable produce. Refrigeration is the principal technique used but, in some instances, low temperature alone may be insufficient to retard ripening of fruit and prevent detrimental quality changes. Moreover, low temperatures for prolonged periods may lead to physiological damage, e.g., low temperature breakdown in apples (14). Pioneering work of Kidd and West (23) led to the development of controlled atmosphere (CA) storage, a sophisticated technique that extends the life of some produce more than refrigeration alone. CA storage is used mainly for apples (40), although recommendations for other fruits (15) and vegetables (16) can be found. Where CA techniques are applied, the concentrations of CO 2 and O 2 are controlled at optima specific for each cultivar, facilitated by the recent development of automatic control systems (22). However, both refrigeration and application of CA techniques are expensive, requiring large capital outlay for installation and maintenance and high energy inputs, especially for cooling. Moreover, it is not practical to provide equipment for CA control or refrigeration for small quantities of produce or individual fruit. Thus, once produce is harvested or removed from storage, it is subject to ambient conditions during marketing, which often lead to rapid quality deterioration.