Quality Changes of Fresh-Cut Leafy and Condiment Vegetables during Refrigerated Storage
2011
Kim, S.J., Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea | Sun, S.H., Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea | Kim, G.C., National Academy of Agricultural Science, RDA, Suwon, Republic of Korea | Kim, H.R., National Academy of Agricultural Science, RDA, Suwon, Republic of Korea | Yoon, K.S., Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
The objective of this study was to analyze quality changes during storage of fresh-cut produce (leafy vegetables and condiment vegetables) as a function of packaging and storage temperature. Fresh-cut produce was washed using a three step cleaning process and was packed in vacuum packaging (green onion, hot pepper, onion, baechu) and perforated film packaging (buchu and perilla leaf). The effects of packaging method and storage temperature on quality of fresh-cut produce were determined by analyzing total plate counts, E. coli, coliform groups, moisture content, pH, Aw, surface color, and exterior quality during storage at 4 and 10℃. According to the results, surface color change and microbial growth were delayed during storage at 4℃. Additionally, E. coli was not detected during storage. Generally, moisture content decreased in the perforated film packaging. Changes in surface quality such as skin browning, softening of tissue and chlorosis at 4℃ were inhibited, whereas rapid vacuum annealing and changes in color and flavor were observed in the sample stored at 10℃. The result indicated that overall quality of the fresh-cut produce at 4℃ was well maintained. The perforation in packing materials did not significantly increase the number of microorganisms on buchu and perilla leaf. The proper packaging methods and temperature may beneficial effect on microbial safety, quality and thus result in longer shelf-life fresh-cut vegetables during distribution.
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