The Effect of Pre-storage Heating on Ripening and Senescence of Apples during Cold Storage1

Abstract

Exposing ‘Spartan’ or ‘Golden Delicious’ apples ( Malus domestica Borkh.) to 38°C for 4 to 6 days immediately after harvest suppressed softening during subsequent storage at −1°C 90 to 94% relative humidity. The rate of acid loss during the period of heating was rapid, but returned to normal during cold storage. Breakdown, core browning, and decay of ‘Spartan’ apple were almost eliminated by the heat treatment. There were no physiological disorders in the ‘Golden Delicious’.