Biochemical and physiological changes in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum- graecum L.) leaves during storage under modified atmosphere packaging

Abstract

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.), is a highly respiring leafy vegetable enriched with many nutrients and other active ingredients such as protein, vitamin C, niacin, potassium, alkaloids, lysine and Ltryptophan as well as steroidal saponins which are beneficial for human health. Both, quantitative and qualitative losses in this vegetable can be reduced by appropriate packaging and storage techniques which have not been applied hitherto. This study was taken upon to assess the potential of macro-perforated MAP for storage of fenugreek leaves. Packages (bag area: 0.075 m 2 ) made from polypropylene (PP) film (Thickness: 35 μmm) were selected for the storage studies. The leaves were packaged in macroperforated (2 perforations, perforation diameter: 0.3 mm each, with and without mustard seeds as natural absorbents) as well as in non-perforated PP film packages with and without mustard seeds. 10 g of mustard seeds were placed inside the packages to check water accumulation. The packaged samples were stored for 6 days at 75% relative humidity (RH) at 15°C to check water accumulation, if any. Different physiological and biochemical characteristics which generally affect the post-harvest life of the produce were monitored during the storage period. Results of the study suggested that among all the treatments, packaging of fenugreek in two perforation packets with mustard seeds resulted in best maintenance of chlorophyll, ascorbic acid, phenols and aroma. Water accumulation was also consoled due to mustard seeds after 6 days of storage.

Respiratory dynamics of fresh baby corn (Zea mays L.) under modified atmospheres based on enzyme kinetics

“…Discolouration of cut surfaces due to enzymatic browning, yellowing of green vegetables, and pale colour of bright vegetables are the main defects of fresh-cut produce (Nobile et al 2006). The risk of developing injurious gas concentrations can be decreased by placing pin holes, or microperforations, in the plastic film (Brar et al 2011. The design of modified atmosphere packages requires knowledge of mass transport properties of polymeric films and the respiration rates of fresh produce placed inside the package.…”

Effects of Packaging on Shelf Life and Postharvest Qualities of Radish Roots during Storage at Low Temperature for an Extended Period

“…Different postharvest treatments such as packaging influence primary and secondary compounds in fruits and vegetables. Packaging, for instance, not only is considered as a food container that prevents mechanical damage and ensures hygiene, but also acts as a useful tool for extending storage life [13,14], maintaining bioactive substances [10,15] and flavor related volatile compounds [16]. Curing is also a physical technique applied for several commodities after harvest to dry the outer skins, roots, and other tissues which make them more resistant to disease causing organisms [17,18].…”

Effect of Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) on the Moisture and Sensory Property of Saffron

“…MAP is one of the most important food preservation methods that maintains the natural quality and extends the storage life of fruits and vegetables [2,3]. Packaging of fenugreek in two perforation packets with mustard seeds resulted in the best maintenance of chlorophyll, ascorbic acid, phenols and aroma [4]. It has also proved to be one of the most significant and innovative growth areas in retail and food packaging of the past two decades [5].…”