Changes in Commercial Quality of 'Rong-Rien' Rambutan in Modified Atmosphere Packaging

Abstract

Modified atmosphere conditions which would prolong the storage life of 'Rong-Rien' rambutan (Nephilium lappaceum) was investigated. Rambutans were packed in 0.04 mm low-density polyethylene (LDPE) bags with 0, 1, 2 or 3 ventilation holes and stored at 12°C. Bags both with and without ventilation holes reduced the weight loss and extended the storage life of the fruit. Rambutan stored in a normal atmosphere had a storage life of only 8 days, while the fruits stored in the bags with and without ventilation holes retained a good appearance for 12 and 16 days, respectively. Respiration and ethylene production were significantly suppressed in rambutans that were stored in LDPE bags without ventilation hole, and electrolyte leakage from the peel tissue of the fruit was also reduced. Ascorbic acid content in control fruits decreased sharply while the fruits stored in LDPE bags maintained their original level for 10 days before decreasing. Gas composition inside the bag without ventilation holes had 7% oxygen and 14% carbon dioxide at the end of storage, while internal gas composition of the perforated bags was almost the same as normal air.