Harvest maturity and postharvest storage condition effects on pomegranate fruit quality

H.S., Sidhu; J.C., Díaz-Pérez; D., MacLean

Harvest maturity and postharvest storage condition effects on pomegranate fruit quality

2012

H.S., Sidhu | J.C., Díaz-Pérez | D., MacLean

Little is known of the postharvest quality and storage potential of locally grown pomegranate cultivars in Georgia, U.S.A. Seven cultivars were harvested at two maturity stages (early and late) and stored either in regular air (RA; 5 degrees C, 90 per cent to 95 per cent R.H.) or in controlled atmosphere (CA; 3 per cent O2, 5 per cent CO2, 5 degrees C, 90 per cent to 95 per cent R.H.) for three months. Fruit were evaluated for physical and physiochemical attributes immediately after removal and after 7 days of keeping the fruit at 21 degrees C. Late harvested fruits had significantly increased total soluble solids (TSS) and anthocyanins content compared to early harvested fruit. CA storage significantly reduced fruit disease compared to RA conditions. Acids degradation was significantly reduced in CA as compared to RA. Juice-weight of 50 arils was increased in CA which is an important consideration for fruit destined for juice production.

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