ffects of modified atmosphere packaging on the storage and shelf life of Hicaznar pomegranate fruits

Abstract

This study compared the postharvest quality of Hicaznar pomegranate fruit unpackaged and packaged with 5-kg or 12-kgbags of two different modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) materials (X5, X12, L5, and L12) during 6 months of storage at 6 °C.The fruits were also evaluated during a simulated shelf life period at 20 °C for 7 days after each cold storage period. The MAP bagssignificantly reduced the loss of titratable acidity and ascorbic acid content and retarded husk discoloration of the fruit during coldstorage and the shelf life period. The incidence of fungal decay was lower in fruit packaged with MAP bags than unpackaged fruit. X5and X12 MAP bags were more effective in reducing weight loss and husk scald than L5 and L12 MAP bags. X5 and X12 MAP bagsmaintained initial red aril color intensity and antioxidant properties of Hicaznar pomegranates throughout cold storage and the shelf lifeperiod. Unpackaged control fruit remained marketable for only 4 months at 6 °C plus shelf life period, while packaged fruit maintainedvisual quality for up to 6 months at 6 °C plus shelf life period.