Effect of packaging and chemical treatment on storage life and physicochemical attributes of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill cv. Roma)

Abstract

Fresh fruits and vegetables are inherently more liable to deterioration under tropical conditions characterized by high ambient temperatures and humidity. In determining the effects of chemical treatment on tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill cv. Roma), fruits purchased at turning stage of ripening were packaged in low density polyethylene bags (60 µ) containing wooden dust particles moistened with 400 ppm potassium permanganate solution. Samples were treated with hot water dip, boric acid (H₃BO₃) dip at 1000 ppm, CaCl₂ dip at 10,000 ppm, a combination of H₃BO₃ and calcium chloride treatment as well as control. Results of chemical treatment showed increase in weight loss, pH, and a slight increase in moisture content. Total soluble solids and titratable acidity of samples showed a steady decrease, with data on physicochemical qualities collected at 7 days interval. Fruits stored with hot water and combination of H₃BO₃ and CaCl₂ treatments showed higher keeping quality. Shelf life elongation treatments used at tropical ambient temperature of 30 ± 2°C was able to preserve tomato fruits for 21 days from spoilage and microbial attack while retaining its colour and other physicochemical properties.

Jar Vacuuming Technology Integrated into the Refrigerator

“…It also remained acceptable for up to 80 days. Considering the weight loss at the end of 1 week, there was a weight loss of 11% in the products put in the cupboard open, 2% in the products put in the refrigerator with refrigerator bags, and 1% in the products put in the refrigerator using the vacuum technology of the fridge (Castro et al, 2006) (Anyasi et al, 2016). When all the results were examined, it was seen that the best examples were the ones placed in the cabinet using the vacuum technology of the refrigerator.…”

Post-Harvest Management and Value Addition in Vegetable Crops

“…This protection can be achieved using materials like plastic films, waxed liners, etc. (Anyasi et al, 2016). Packaging typically falls into three categories: consumer units or pre-packaging, transport packaging, and unit load packaging or pallets (FAO, 2004).…”