The effect of chitosan coating (1.0 and 1.5% w/v) in controlling decay of strawberries at 13°C was investigated as compared to a fungicide, iprodione (Rovralm). Chitosan coating significantly reduced decay of berries (PsO.05) compared to the control. There was no significant difference between chitosan and fungicide treatments up to 21 days storage. Thereafter, Rovrala-treated berries decayed at a higher rate than chitosan-coated berries. Chitosan-coated berries stored at 4°C were firmer, higher in titratable acidity, and synthesized anthocyanin at a slower rate than Rovrala-treated or nontreated berries. Chitosan coating decreased respiration rate of the berries with a greater effect at higher concentration.

Suitability of plastic films in standard configurations to maintain modified atmospheres was evaluated for common fruits and vegetables. Most films did not result in optimal O2 and CO2 atmospheres, especially when produce had high respiration. Produce with low and medium respiration could be matched with films considering Oa permeability requirements alone. MA packaging systems designed to produce optimal oxygen at suitable temperatures could have complications from transient temperature increases during storage and/or transportation. Respiration rates of fruits and vegetables increase more with temperature than do gas permeabilities of films. Higher than optimum temperatures could cause anoxia and seriously damage produce. More permeable gas pathways and temperature compensation to equalize Qra values are needed for MA packaging systems to timction effectively.

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