Quality of papaya in modified atmosphere packages under simulated storage condition for export by sea

P. Mohd. Salleh, M. Pauziah, S. Ahmad Tarmizi and M.Z. Zaipun

Abstract

Modified atmosphere packaging has been used for maintaining the quality of some fruits during transportation and distribution to market outlets. The technique was used in the present study to develop several modified atmosphere packages for Eksotika papaya. About 6 kg fruits were packed in each package treatments of polyethylene bag, impermeable container with aperture, polyethylene bag with aperture and control package (without modified atmosphere system). The fruits were stored at 12 °C for 5 weeks to simulate the condition and handling period required for export by sea to Europe. The gas compositions were maintained between 2–6% O2 and 8–9% CO2 for polyethylene bag and polyethylene bag with aperture, while for the impermeable container with aperture, the composition was about 15% O2 and 7% CO2. The overall ethylene concentration in all packages was less than 1.0 ppm. The conditions in polyethylene bag and polyethylene bag with aperture were favourable to maintain the quality of Eksotika papaya up to 5 weeks storage at 12 °C. The weight loss of fruit in both packages was low, skin colour was maintained and the chilling injury and diseases were controlled during storage. All fruits ripened normally after being displayed for 3 days at ambient room.

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