Quality of strawberries subjected to pre-harvest UV-C radiation

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of the use of UV-C radiation at an intensity of 0.53 KJ m-2, during strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) cultivation, on the physicochemical and phytochemical parameters of the fruits. The used experimental design was completely randomized, in a single-factor arrangement with 11, 19, 29, and 39 UV-C applications and without UV-C application. The hue of the fruits was smaller at the end of the study period. pH varied in strawberries that received 39 applications of UVC, and the soluble solids content differed with 19 applications. Antioxidant activity was lower in fruits with 11, 19, and 29 UV-C applications, whereas vitamin C content was lower only in fruits that received 29 applications. The use of UV-C radiation at an intensity of 0.53 KJ m-2, during strawberry cultivation, affects the physicochemical and phytochemical parameters of the fruits, but does not cause losses in their quality.