Combined Foliar Spray of Boron, Calcium, and Silicon can Influence Quality and Shelf Life of Cherry Tomato in Modified Atmosphere Packaging

Abstract

This study was analyzed the effects of boron (B), calcium (Ca), silicon (Si) on quality and shelf life of 'Unicorn' cherry tomato at the light red maturity-stage. The storage conditions were modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) by oxygen transmission rate (OTR) packaging film at 5 o C, 11 o C, and 24 o C. Respiration and ethylene production were the lowest in B + Ca + Si-treated tomato fruits. The lowest fresh weight loss and the longest shelf life resulted from the B + Ca + Si treatment. And the firmness was enhanced by B + Ca + Si treatment at harvest time, and it was retained after storage at 5 o C, 11 o C, and 24 o C. Significantly lower soluble solids, lycopene, and color development were found at B + Ca + Si-treated tomato fruits compared with control after storage. Moreover, the highest titratable acidity and vitamin C content were observed in B + Ca + Si-treated tomato fruits after storage. From the above results, it was concluded that B + Ca + Si combined treatment can delay the maturity of cherry tomato after harvesting, and retained the firmness and prolong the shelf life.