Extension of Postharvest Life of `Mission' Figs by CO2-enriched Atmospheres

Abstract

Good quality of fresh `Mission' figs (Ficus carica L.) was maintained for up to 4 weeks when kept at 0, 2.2, or 5C in atmospheres enriched with 15% or 20% CO 2 . The visible benefits of exposure to high CO 2 levels were reduction of decay incidence and maintenance of bright external appearance. Ethylene production was lower, and fruit softening (as measured with a deformation tester) was slower in the high-CO 2 -stored figs than in those kept in air. Ethanol content of the CO 2 -treated fruit increased slightly during the first 3 weeks and moderately during the 4th week, while acetaldehyde concentration increased during the first week, then decreased. The results may be applicable to the transport and storage of fresh `Mission' figs, as high CO 2 extended their postharvest life, especially near 0C.