Modified atmosphere packaging films for qualitative storage of Dimocarpus longan fruit in Vietnam

Abstract

Preservation of fruit freshness in extended storage life represents a major obstacle in the fruit production industry. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) using either polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), ‘Lifespan’ L201 (LS), ‘Peakfresh’ (PF) or ‘Zoepac’ (ZP) is a lower cost way to potentially reduce postharvest fruit waste. In this research, we focused on finding the best MAP for optimal postharvest preservation of Dimocarpus longan fruit harvested in Tien Giang Province of Vietnam. We carried out MAP experiments at two different temperature levels of 5 or 20°C and observed the levels of CO2 and O2 and the quality of fruit inside the packages during 20 d storage. The results show that the CO2 and O2 composition of the atmosphere are most favorable in packages of LS film, giving better skin colour, total soluble solids, and higher total acidity, taste scores as well as lower weight loss and rot incidence when compared with those of other film treatments.