Controlled atmosphere (CA) storage of apples

Author(s) : Irrum Babu, Sidra Rashid, Hafiz Usama Noor, Rabiya Zulfiqar, Hammad Naeem, Muhammad Hamdan Rashid, Rabia Kanwal, Zarina Yasmin, Bareera Shafique, Muhammad Abrar

Digital object identifier:

https://doi.org/10.52587/JAF060108

Abstract:

Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage is a widely used technique to extend the shelf life of agricultural and horticultural produce. The impact of low oxygen (O2) levels (1%, 2%, and 3%) in combination with 1% carbon dioxide (CO2) on the quality attributes of apples during 180 days of storage at 0°C ± 2°C and 85-95% relative humidity was studied. Results demonstrated that CA storage significantly reduced the percentage weight loss compared to the controlled treatment, indicating the effectiveness of low-oxygen conditions in minimizing physiological deterioration. While a general decrease in total phenols was observed across all treatments, CA conditions were more effective in preserving these compounds. Notably, low oxygen atmospheres significantly retarded the decline in antioxidant activity, suggesting that CA can help maintain the balance of reactive oxygen species and delay oxidative senescence. The results exhibit the benefits of CA storage in extending the shelf life and maintaining the nutritional value of apples. The optimal storage conditions identified in this research can be valuable for the postharvest industry to improve the quality and marketability of apples.