Abstract
Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) increases the postharvest life of fresh fruits by suppressing metabolic activities with
modified in-package atmosphere. This study was aimed to explore the potential benefits of MAP technology combined with
low temperature storage in mango cv. ‘Samar Bahisht Chaunsa’ to extend its shelf life. Physiologically mature mangoes after
harvest were de-sapped (0.5% lime solution), dipped in hot water (52±2°C for 5 min) fungicidal (0.5 mL Prochloraz L-1
)
solution, packed in 5kg cardboard boxes (T1; Biofresh®, T2; Xtend®, T3; Unbagged) and stored at 13°C±1, RH: 85-90% for 7,
14, 21, 28 and 35 days. Following cold storage, fruit were subjected to two different ripening temperatures (32 and 24°C) with
a 24 h 100 ppm ethylene treatment. Data related to physical, physiological, biochemical, organoleptic and marketable attributes
was collected. Among MAP bags, the desirable atmosphere comprising high CO2 and low O2 concentration was observed in
Biofresh® bags. Tolerance of mangoes under elevated CO2 atmospheres and chilling injury (CI) decreased when storage period
exceeded more than 14 days with onset of discolouration issues. Overall, bagged fruit had minimum weight loss, CI intensity,
shriveling and remained firmer in comparison to control. Maximum peel colour development was observed in fruit stored up
to 14 days in Biofresh® bags when ripened at high temperature (32±1°C). Whereas, fruit kept in Xtend® bags and those without
MAP only developed acceptable peel colour up to 7 days of cold storage. Fruit kept in Xtend® bags exhibited minimum ethylene
levels (ppm) and endured the least loss in weight and firmness but remained mostly green. Bagged fruit had a higher vitamin
C content and lower TA in comparison to unbagged fruits. In conclusion, ‘Samar Bahisht Chaunsa’ stored at 13°C in Biofresh®
bag showed better visual appearance, palatability and nutritive values as compared to Xtend® bag and those without MAP.
