Modelling modified atmosphere packaging of Eksotika papaya

P. Mohd. Salleh, M. Z. Zaipun and M. Norhayati

Abstract

A mathematical model was developed to predict package size for fruit in modified atmosphere environments. The model was based on the packaging ratio required for providing a specific steady-state O2 concentration. The model was verified using Eksotika papaya kept at low temperature. Results of the experiment showed the ability of the mathematical model to predict precise modified atmosphere package for papaya. The desired steady-state O2 and CO2 concentrations were achieved after about 3 days in storage and maintained close to the predicted levels until the end of the 3-week storage period. Ethylene concentration recorded in the package was low indicating that no ripening process occurred during storage.

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