Effect of modified atmosphere packaging on the antioxidant activity and total phenolic content in 'Albacor' figs
2015
Villalobos, Cinta | Martin, A. | Ruiz-Moyano, S. | Martin, E. | Cordoba, M. G. | Serradilla, M. J.
Fig (Ficus carica L.) is an excellent source of nutrients and bioactive compounds that contribute to a healthy diet. However, they are highly perishable after harvest with limited shelf life period. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of different equilibrium modified atmospheres (EMAP) generated through different microperforated biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) films with different gas permeation on functional properties. Figs from the cultivar ‘Albacor’ were packaged using different films: macro-perforated film (control: C), microperforated film with 16 holes (M10), microperforated film with 5 holes (M30) and microperforated film with 3 holes (M50). Figs were then stored at 0°C and 90-95% relative humidity in darkness for 21 days. Gas composition, molds and yeast counts and functional properties such as total phenolic content (TP) and total antioxidant activity (TAA) of skin and flesh were analyzed at day 0 and after 7, 14, 17 and 21 days of cold storage. M50 film reached the highest CO2 and lowest O2 levels (10 and 11.95 kPa, respectively) within packages and showed an inhibitory effect on mold and yeast growth. TP and TAA levels were shown to be higher in skin compared to flesh. Conversely, in the control treatment the TAA level in skin decreased after 21 days of storage, whereas figs packaged in microperforated films maintained or increased their TAA levels. Additionally, figs stored under microperforated films presented higher TP and TAA levels in flesh than control fruit during cold storage. Therefore, figs packaged under modified atmospheres with microperforated films, especially M50 film, showed a positive effect for the maintenance of phytochemical content and delayed the incidence of postharvest disorders.
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