Quality attributes of modified atmosphere packaged bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) during storage

Abstract

Bell pepper is one of the most important horticultural commodities of commercial importance owing to the presence of flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin C. This is one of the main export produce of Israel. Export and local market both demand high quality vegetables, possessing long shelf-life and freshness at the market. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of modified atmosphere packaging using two different packaging materials viz., Xtend® (XF) and polyethylene (PE) films at 1.5?C, 7?C and 17?C storage temperatures. Fruits were evaluated for total soluble solids, gaseous composition, colour, firmness, elasticity, weight loss, chilling injury, decay and sensory parameters to assess the quality and shelf-life. XF and PE minimized weight loss and maintained firmness and freshness. Further, XF reduce the development of decay in the fruits stored at 7?C and chilling injury at 1.5?C. The fruit storage was best at 7?C using XF packaging.